Microsoft accidentally reveals redesigned Windows 10 Start menu

(Image credit: Future)

Microsoft’s iconic Start menu has been a bone of contention for fans since Windows 10 released, prompting the software giant to survey its testers specifically on the User Interface (UI) feature.

The results of that survey could mean a new look and layout of the Windows 10 Start menu, as a leaked test version of the operating system discovered by The Verge shows a complete redesign.

Build 18947 of the Windows 10 operating system was accidentally distributed to testers in the Windows Insider program who were using 32-bit systems – this particular build was only intended for internal staff working on Xbox development.

As mentioned, the leaked build contains a new stripped-back Start menu design, as seen in the above tweet from Twitter user @NTAuthority. The redesign does away with Windows 10 Live Tiles – a somewhat contentious feature seemingly introduced to make the UI more friendly for tablets and touchscreen devices.

Since January we’ve heard word that Windows Lite will adopt such a design, with a more minimalistic approach to compete with Google’s ChromeOS, and while this isn’t an official announcement from Microsoft, it could be indicative of the stylistic direction the company will take.

Harry Domanski
Harry is an Australian Journalist for TechRadar with an ear to the ground for future tech, and the other in front of a vintage amplifier. He likes stories told in charming ways, and content consumed through massive screens. He also likes to get his hands dirty with the ethics of the tech.
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