Microsoft has released images of its rejected Start menu redesigns. The concept designs were tested with hundreds of people, before a final design was selected.

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Microsoft has revealed several concept designs for the Windows 11 Start menu, showcasing alternative layouts that were considered before finalizing the new design. Key features include greater customizability and the option to disable the recommended feed, enhancing user accessibility and personalization. The redesign process involved testing with more than 300 users, using eye-tracking and feedback to refine the design, which is currently being tested with Windows Insiders.

Microsoft reveals its rejected Start menu redesigns

Maybe, just maybe, listen to customers instead of trying to build something you clearly don’t know how to do it.
Nobody ever complained about Windows XP or Windows 7 UI.
Or, ditch the start menu all together and use the PowerToy’s spotlight clone.
But, then you could not add ads, right? So sad.

They could just copy Android app drawer.

Maybe just try to turn off spy on users.
OneDrive, AI and other BS

I feel like start menus have been already perfected in Linux distros like a decade ago