Windows 11 finally has a new and much-improved Start menu, here is how to enable it

Windows 11 received a fair share of flak from users for its controversial Start menu redesign, which many consider a big step back from what Windows 10 had. For years after the initial Windows 11 release, Microsoft finally has a much-improved variant, which is now available for everyone to download and try.

The redesigned Start menu addresses several drawbacks of the original version. For example, it is no longer split into two pages. You can now have the list of all apps right when you open the menu. Next, you can finally turn off the Recommended section and have more space for your pins and all apps. Also, the list of all apps has three views: grid, list, and categories.

The new Start menu is available as part of the October 2025 non-security update, and it is rolling out gradually to all users on Windows 11 version 24H2 and 25H2, alongside other improvements, such as the redesigned battery indicator. If you do not want to wait, here is how to enable the upgraded Start menu right here, right now.

How to enable the new Start menu in Windows 11?

1. Start by downloading KB5067036. You must be on build 26100.7019 or 26200.7019 to enable the new Start menu. As of late October 2025, the update is available as an optional non-security release, and its rollout is expected to broaden in the next weeks.
2. Once the update is installed, download ViVeTool from GitHub and unpack it whenever convenient.
3. Launch Command Prompt as Administrator and navigate to the folder with ViVeTool files using the CD command. For example, CD C:\vive.
4. Type vivetool /enable /id:57048231,47205210,56328729,48433719 and press Enter.
5. Restart your computer.

That's it. Now you have the new Start menu, the redesigned battery indicator, and other upgrades. By the way, did you know that Microsoft considered several versions for the updated Start menu? You can check out some of the prototypes here.

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Posted Wednesday 29 October 2025 at 12:44 pm AEST (my time).

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