Microsoft has introduced a feature in the latest Windows 11 Beta build allowing users to categorize apps within the Start menu. The update, part of build 22635.4010 for Beta Channel participants, aims to enhance app organization in the Start menu.
User Experience and Technical Aspects
This categorization feature doesn’t replace the default pinned section of the Start menu but offers an additional way to organize and access apps. The categories are managed through a JSON file, raising questions about its compatibility with non-Microsoft Store applications. Users have noted that while the feature works, some apps are put into smaller, less functional categories.
Although Microsoft has not formally announced this update, it suggests a move towards more organized and user-friendly interfaces within Windows 11. The feature was spotted by Phantonofearth on X.
Here’s the new category view in Start > All apps in build 22635.4010 – in this update, it works!
Only app icons are shown, some apps are also in smaller groups within categories (trying to open them doesn’t work yet). https://t.co/4AsZjWYy5R pic.twitter.com/TgBsAEvAZR
— phantomofearth 🌳 (@phantomofearth) August 9, 2024
App Categories in Start Menu
The new feature allows apps to be grouped by category, making it easier to locate specific applications. Initially discovered in a non-functional state, it now works but needs configuration via third-party tools. Users can find this option by going to Start > All apps, then choosing “Category” adjacent to “All apps.”
Activating this feature requires updating to Windows 11 build 22635.4010, downloading ViveTool from GitHub, extracting it, and using Command Prompt to enable specific feature IDs:
- Ensure your Windows 11 operating system is updated to build 22635.4010 within the Beta Channel.
- Download the ViveTool package from GitHub and extract its contents to a readily accessible location.
- Simultaneously press the Windows and X keys, then select “Terminal (Admin)” from the menu.
- Switch the Windows Terminal to Command Prompt mode using the Ctrl+Shift+2 shortcut or the dropdown arrow at the top of the terminal window.
- Utilize the “cd” command to navigate to the directory containing the extracted ViveTool files. For instance, if the files are located in C:\Vive, input “cd C:\Vive”.
- Execute the command “vivetool /enable /id:49221331,47205210,48433719” and press Enter.
- Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:19 pm CET
