Video: Windows 11 improved Start menu, 2D emojis, and updated Settings app

Windows 11 recently shipped to Insiders in the Dev Channel. The build includes several changes and improvements, including the option to choose how many rows of pinned apps appear with the Start menu. The Windows 11 Start menu has proven controversial, and the recommended section has drawn a large amount of criticism. The Start menu’s new customization option should be a welcome change to Windows 11 Insiders.

Our senior editor Zac Bowden runs through all of the changes in the latest build in a new hands-on video, including the improved Start menu and changes to how default apps are set. Bowden also attempts to open the new Media Player app, though it quickly crashes.

If you prefer to read through changelogs, we have a complete breakdown of Windows 11 build 22509.

This is the first build video since the initial release of Windows 11, so Bowden also takes a look at changes that have rolled out with other recent Insider builds. These include the refreshed Your Phone app and the new 2D emojis.

Near the end of the video, Bowden shows how Android app support works on Windows 11. We also have a separate video that dives into this in more depth.

If you aren’t a Windows Insider yet but would like to try out preview builds of Windows 11, we have a guide on how to join the Windows Insider program.