Last week, Microsoft unveiled a new feature in the Windows 11 build 23545, currently under testing in the Dev Channel. This feature, though not officially announced in the release notes, introduces the concept of folders in the Start menu's Recommended section. This addition aims to provide users with a more organized view of recently added applications and suggested files.
A Response to User Feedback
The Recommended section, since its inception in Windows 11, has garnered mixed reviews from the user community. While some find it beneficial, others have expressed a desire for Microsoft to provide an option to disable it. This new folder feature seems to be a response to such feedback, offering a more streamlined and organized view of recent additions. To experience this updated version, users would need to enable it using a third-party application named ViVeTool.
How to Activate the New Feature
For those eager to test out the folder feature in the Recommended section, the process involves using the ViVeTool. After downloading and unpacking the ViVeTool from GitHub, users can activate the feature by following specific command prompts. However, it's essential to note that any modifications to the operating system come with inherent risks. As always, backing up crucial data before making any changes is advisable.
“An update to the Start menu's Recommended section that could be coming soon: grouping multiple recently added apps into one item that can be clicked to show a list. (23545)” – PhantomOcean3 on X (formerly Twitter).
An update to the Start menu's Recommended section that could be coming soon: grouping multiple recently added apps into one item that can be clicked to show a list. (23545)
vivetool /enable /id:46045587 pic.twitter.com/zoO8JVyWPZ
— PhantomOcean3 ☃️ (@PhantomOfEarth) September 19, 2023
The introduction of folders in the Recommended section is a testament to Microsoft's commitment to refining and enhancing the Windows 11 user experience based on feedback. As the tech giant continues its testing phase, it remains to be seen how this feature will be received once rolled out to the broader public.
How to activate and test the folders feature in Windows 11
- Grab the ViVeTool from GitHub and extract its contents to a location you can easily access.
- Use the Win + X keys together and choose Terminal (Admin) from the options.
- In the Windows Terminal, either use Ctrl + Shift + 2 or tap the downward arrow on the tab section to switch from PowerShell to the Command Prompt profile. A visual guide on the Windows Terminal App will show this transition.
- Move to the directory where you've stored the ViveTool by using the CD command. As an illustration, if it's in C:\Vive, input CD C:\Vive.
- Input the command vivetool /enable /id:46045587 and hit Enter.
- Give your PC a reboot.
- If the previous steps didn't yield results, go through steps 2-4 again, then input vivetool /enable /id:44470355,42105254,39146010 and hit Enter.
- Restart your PC once more.
