Microsoft Prepares New Windows 11 Start Menu With Faster Performance and Customization

Microsoft is preparing a redesigned Start menu for Windows 11, focusing on speed, customization, and overall usability. The changes are part of a broader effort to improve system quality and responsiveness.

New Start Menu Built on WinUI 3

According to Windows Central, Microsoft is developing a new Start menu powered by WinUI 3. This update aims to modernize the interface while improving performance across different system conditions.

Users will gain more control over how the Start menu looks and behaves. The redesign introduces manual layout selection, allowing users to choose between smaller or larger Start menu sizes instead of relying on automatic scaling.

More Customization Options

Microsoft is also expanding customization features, giving users the ability to toggle entire sections on or off. This includes options to disable the Recommended feed, pinned apps, or even the full app list.

All these controls will live inside the Windows Settings app, using simple toggles for easier access. This approach makes personalization more straightforward without requiring deep system changes.

Performance and Responsiveness Improvements

The redesigned Start menu focuses heavily on performance. Microsoft aims to eliminate common issues such as delayed opening times and missed keystrokes during search.

The new version should remain responsive even under heavy CPU load. Users will be able to start typing immediately after opening the menu, with no lag or input delays.

Faster Search Experience Also in Development

The Start menu improvements are part of a larger initiative internally referred to as “Windows K2.” This project focuses on improving stability, performance, and overall user experience across Windows 11.

Alongside the new Start menu, Microsoft is also working on enhancing Windows search. The company plans to deliver faster and more accurate results, addressing long-standing complaints about sluggish search performance.

At the same time, a new movable Taskbar has been spotted in development, suggesting Microsoft is exploring additional UI flexibility beyond the Start menu.

Overall, Microsoft’s upcoming changes show a clear shift toward making Windows 11 more responsive, customizable, and efficient for everyday use.