Microsoft Enhances Windows 11 Start Menu Recommendations Without Removing Them
While there are aspects of Windows 11 that I appreciate, there are also several features that I find quite frustrating. A significant annoyance for me is the inability to reposition the taskbar, a change that doesn’t seem to be coming anytime soon. Another aspect I’m not particularly fond of is the recommendations feature within the Start menu. Although Microsoft has no intention of eliminating it, they have indicated plans for improvements.
The recommendations feature suggests applications, websites, and files tailored to your usage patterns. For instance, if you frequently utilize Telegram, it may appear as a “frequently opened”item in the recommendations section. Similarly, the Start menu may propose websites based on your browsing habits.
However, the problem with these recommendations is their lack of accuracy and reliability. Often, the Start menu overlooks applications or websites you genuinely want to access, a concern that Microsoft acknowledges regarding the limitations of Windows 11. That said, with the update KB5048753 in the beta channel, enhancements to the recommendations have been made.
According to findings from Windows Latest, the feature has improved, as the Start menu now effectively identifies files or websites that may be of interest. It appears Microsoft has refined the filtering process, allowing the Start menu to deliver higher-quality recommendations based on user browsing behavior.
Microsoft has expressed its interest in receiving user feedback to further enhance the effectiveness of the Start menu’s recommendations. Furthermore, the company has confirmed that they have no plans to discard this feature, as they aim to improve its utility for easier access to relevant items.
Upcoming Changes Related to the Start Menu
Though not directly tied to the Start menu, it’s somewhat connected. Recent reports from Windows Latest indicate that Microsoft is set to divide the search experience into local results and those powered by Bing, rather than integrating both. This adjustment aligns with the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) requirements.
This alteration will allow users to search only their local storage, potentially enhancing the search experience significantly. Regardless of how you access the search function—whether through the Start menu or via a direct search button—you will initially see local results. However, users can still click on the “Bing” tab for web content.
Windows Latest notes that this will represent one of the most substantial changes to the search functionality in Windows 11, albeit limited to only users in the EU.
This update will not be available in the United States due to the absence of stringent anti-competitive regulations.
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