- Microsoft brings big changes to its Windows 11 -StartMenu
- Users can now separate applications in categories or use the traditional grid view
- It’s available to try for testers, almost in time for ROG Xbox Ally -Handheld
Microsoft brings a handful of changes to its Windows 11 operating system in preparation for ROG Xbox -allied handhelds. Beta testers are already starting to see improvements to the user interface – and a feature can be a significant help for navigation.
As reported by The Verge, Microsoft improves its Windows 11 start menu, now available to testers, with multiple customization options to make scrolls and find applications easier. These can be sorted into separate categories (as shown in the image below) or used in the classic grid view.
While all applications have always been available via the start menu, this improved version makes finding your application much easier. Instead of finding a particular app through its first letter or symbol, you may simply be able to jump into a ‘game’ folder or ‘browsers’ folder, eliminating the need to activate desktopicons.
The ‘Recommended’ section can also be deactivated as this often appears recently opened files or folders to make room for more apps and now new categories. It is also worth noting that Microsoft says the start menu will be larger, which will vary depending on the screen size or device used.
These are perfectly set up for the new login screen that allows users to enter their PIN using a gaming controller and this is probably a preparation for “full-screen” update that comes to the new Windows 11 handhelds. However, there is a great advantage that OLED Monitor users like me will also appreciate.
Analysis: Some of my OLED BURN-IN WORRIES can rest …
I want to be honest, in all the years I’ve used Dells Alienware AW3423DWF OLED Monitor, I haven’t found a single problem of burning and that includes moments of self-satisfaction, leaving static images on the screen. Still, I’m still paranoid, it will happen in the end, and Microsoft’s efforts on a better start menu give me an easy sigh of relief.
Burn-in is one of the biggest dealbreakers for players considering an OLED purchase, which is why I would go so far as recommending a mini-led screen in some cases. However, OLED care on screens goes continuously, and although Microsoft may have had other intentions with this tester update, it has served as a bonus.
While Microsoft is doing this with its operating system, I would very much like to see the same concept used for games. Early access or multiplayer games often have a build number in the corner of the screen, and colleagues OLED users will be aware of how much of a nightmare this is, as it is essentially an open invitation to burn.
Either way, it’s a positive step from Microsoft in the same week that it announced an improved Xbox app. We just have to see if it is enough to create strong competition for steamos in terms of usefulness.
