Microsoft has been tinkering with the Windows 11 Start menu like a mad scientist with a test tube. While some experiments have been met with lukewarm responses, the tech giant isn’t giving up. Its latest creation is a ‘Category’ layout, an alternative to the current ‘All apps’ list.

Imagine the frustration of scrolling through an endless list of apps to find that one you need. It’s like searching for a needle in a digital haystack. Microsoft seems to have felt our pain and is trying to introduce some order into the chaos. This new ‘Category’ layout is an attempt to do just that.

Instead of a single, overwhelming list, the Category layout groups apps into themed categories like entertainment, music, or news. It’s a bit like having virtual folders for your apps. Each category displays a grid of up to four apps, but don’t be fooled. These grids are expandable, allowing you to pack in up to 16 apps per category. It’s a clever use of space that could revolutionize how we interact with our apps.

But don’t get too excited just yet. This new layout is still under construction. While we can see the potential, it’s not fully functional. The mini-icons within each category don’t do much right now. It’s like looking at a beautiful painting with missing colors.

Microsoft could still change its mind, or the feature might be scrapped altogether. However, if it does come to fruition, it could be a game-changer. Both the Category and another experimental layout, the Grid view, promise a more organized and efficient way to navigate your apps.

It’s a nostalgic trip back to the days when Start menus were actually helpful. Remember when you could glance at the menu and instantly find what you needed? Those were the days.