Microsoft isn’t ready to roll back major Windows 11 design changes yet, but it is at least testing some new ways to customize the operating system. With the latest Windows 11 Insider build (22509), the revamped Start menu lets you see more pinned apps or more recommended apps and files in addition to the standard mode that balances the two. This is not a return to the Windows 10 Start menu that some die-hard users have been screaming for, and it’s really unlikely that Microsoft will ever give in. Windows 11 prioritizes minimalism, and a busy Start menu with all of your apps doesn’t really fit that shape.
Microsoft
Among other changes, the Insider build also brings the date and clock back to the system tray on additional monitor screens, which was inexplicably removed in Windows 11. Microsoft notes that, oddly enough, the optimization doesn’t show up for every Insider user. It’s a shame Microsoft isn’t looking for more ways to customize the taskbar – losing Windows captions made my desktop cleaner, but more difficult to navigate compared to Windows 10.
The new Windows 11 Insider build will also make it easier to use the Edge web browser while using Narrator, Microsoft’s built-in screen reader. You can also expect more options to move from the aging Control Panel to the cleaner Settings app. This includes advanced sharing settings like network discovery and file / printer sharing. You can also see more details about your printers and scanners in the Settings app.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team independently of our parent company. Some of our stories contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
