Skip to main content

New Windows 11 build improves the Start Menu, makes experience ‘even better’

A little over a week after Microsoft launched Windows 11 in an early preview with the Windows Insider program, the new operating system is already seeing some big updates.

Microsoft just announced a new Dev Channel build of Windows 11, improving the Start Menu and adding fixes that “make the Windows 11 experience even better.

A screenshot shows the new Windows 11 Start Menu with a search box.
DigitalTrends.com

The big improvement in this build of Windows 11 is a new search box in the Start Menu, making it easier to find what you’re looking for, without the need to open the dedicated search app. Other changes include the return of the Power Mode settings in the Power and Battery page, as well as the ability to right-click on the volume icon in the taskbar to troubleshoot sound problems.

Recommended Videos

Some smaller changes coming in this build relate to system alert dialogue boxes. The alert for battery running low and display settings all now feature Windows 11’s new visual design. Microsoft even simplified refreshing the desktop, so that you no longer need to click “show more options.”

More importantly, this latest build fixes the “PrintNightmare” vulnerability in Windows. Separate out-of-band patches fixed it in Windows 10, but today’s release patches up the remote code execution exploit in Windows 11. Other fixes cover bugs in the settings app, notifications, lock screen, Widgets, and more.

The full changelog for this build is available on Microsoft’s website and is pretty significant in length. We just hit the highlights. The log also lists several bugs which might impact your experience if you opt to install the early preview of Windows 11. These include bugs with File Explorer, search, and widgets,

As a reminder, if you’re not already enrolled to test Windows 11, you can do so right now on compatible PCs via the Windows Insider Dev Channel in just a few steps. Microsoft invites those who are beta testing Windows 11 right now to participate in a “bug bash” where quests can be completed related to the new operating system via the Feedback Hub.

At the end of those quests, you can earn a virtual badge. Quests cover looking over the new Start Menu, trying out the new multitasking features, and more.

Arif Bacchus
Arif Bacchus is a native New Yorker and a fan of all things technology. Arif works as a freelance writer at Digital Trends…
This Windows 11 update makes Start Menu much more desirable and usable again
The Dell XPS 13 on a table with the Start Menu open.

The Start Menu has been the central element in Microsoft Windows for nearly three decades. Though loved initially for its resourcefulness, the Menu went through some debatable -- I call them abhorrent -- changes with Windows 8, but eventually returned to occupying less space in the interface with Windows 8.1, and then Windows 10 and 11. Despite the rescuing, it is still reeling under the damaging changes in the form of recommendations and random automatically populating lists that reduce it to a mere glorified search interface. However, Microsoft may now be looking to resolve these issues and bringing back a more simplified interface with an upcoming update.

Microsoft is testing a new interface for Start Menu on Windows 11, reducing the existing clutter of randomly interspersed apps and files. X user @phantomofearth, renowned for testing new features in Windows Insider builds, gave us a good look at the new interface in a detailed video walkthrough.

Read more
Windows 11 users outsmart Microsoft once again with new local account trick
A screenshot of the Windows 11 Microsoft Account setup page

A newly discovered trick allows Windows 11 users to bypass Microsoft’s online account requirement during setup, raising questions around user control and privacy. The workaround, shared by X user @witherornot1337, lets users set up Windows 11 with a local account instead of being forced to log in with a Microsoft account.

This follows previous similar methods, highlighting an ongoing cat-and-mouse game between Microsoft and privacy-conscious users. Microsoft has been increasingly pushing online accounts as a mandatory requirement for Windows 11, particularly in Home and Pro editions. This change has frustrated many users who prefer local accounts for greater privacy and independence from Microsoft’s ecosystem.

Read more
I hope Microsoft adds these 6 things to the next major Windows Update
Windows 11 logo on a laptop.

Windows 11 updates have a bit of a reputation, from slowing Intel's newest desktop processors to breaking games. Despite the occasional hiccup, we still look forward with cautious optimism.

Despite the occasional rough patch, Microsoft continues to evolve the OS, and each update feels like a chance for a new beginning. While Microsoft hasn't confirmed anything yet, the rumor mill is buzzing with what comes next, and I'm starting to feel excited. The talk of new features suggests fixes for long-standing annoyances, productivity boosts, and quality-of-life improvements worth waiting for.
What's coming to Windows in 2025?

Read more