Windows 11 24H2’s updated Start menu is getting ready for a broader release. Different from the older version, this new interface better utilizes larger screens and gives you the option to hide the “Recommended” section. It also introduces a Category view that organizes apps into predefined groups, although users won't be able to create custom categories, as stated by Microsoft.

The original Windows 11 Start menu includes a Pinned apps section, a button for accessing All Apps, and a Recommended section.

In contrast, the updated Start menu presents a single scrollable page with everything you need—Pinned apps, All apps, and even the new Category view. You no longer have to switch pages to see your full app list; everything appears on one screen.

While the system-generated categories cover most scenarios, some users may want more control over how their apps are grouped. Unfortunately, Microsoft has confirmed that custom category creation won’t be supported at launch. The available categories include:

• Utilities and tools: Includes Windows Settings, Calculator, Clock, Calendar, and similar apps.
• Productivity: Contains browsers like Edge and Chrome, AI tools such as Copilot and ChatGPT, Outlook, File Explorer, and Notepad.
• Games: Xbox app, user-installed games, and built-in titles like Solitaire.
• Social: Telegram, Signal, WhatsApp, and other communication apps.
• Entertainment: Windows Media Player, Netflix, Prime Video, Apple Music, and more.
• Creativity: Paint, Camera, Photos, etc.
• Information & Reading: Weather, Maps, MSN, and related apps.
• Other.

When an app doesn’t clearly fit into any of these groups, it will show up in the “Other” category.

According to Microsoft, a category will only appear if it contains at least three apps. So, if you've removed most apps under Creativity and only have Paint left, that category won’t display—Paint will instead appear in the “Other” group. With only a few apps installed, many could end up here.

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It’s possible that future updates may expand the Categories feature, potentially allowing users to define their own groups, much like how folders work in the current Start menu.

This redesigned Start menu is part of Windows 11 24H2 and will be included by default in the upcoming Windows 11 25H2 release.

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