Microsoft is rolling out a revamped Start menu for Windows 11, introducing a modern layout and integrating new AI tools that mark a notable shift in user experience. The redesigned menu arrives alongside updates to native apps and key improvements in AI accessibility.
A more intuitive and AI-powered Start menu
The new Start menu now features a roomier “all apps” view that makes navigation and scrolling far easier. Users will also find a new phone companion panel, allowing them to access messages, calls, and contacts from Android or iPhone directly within Windows.
In addition to the layout changes, Microsoft is introducing on-device AI that can adjust settings, troubleshoot issues, and even offer context-aware suggestions. These AI tools come with a warning: “Recommendations are AI-generated and may be incorrect”, reminding users to double-check changes before applying them.
Advanced image editing and smart screenshots
AI integration extends beyond the Start menu. Windows apps like Paint, Photos, and Snipping Tool are gaining powerful new features. Paint now offers generative fill and content-aware tools, while the Photos app adds “Relight,” letting users place up to three light sources in an image. The Snipping Tool debuts “Perfect Screenshot,” which automatically crops to the most relevant content and can extract text from images using OCR.
Rollout and availability
These features will first reach Copilot Plus PCs with Snapdragon X chips, while Intel and AMD users will receive the update at a later stage. Microsoft describes the changes as making the Windows experience “more intuitive, more accessible and ultimately more useful.”