Microsoft recently unveiled a brand-new Windows search experience that allows users to perform actions directly from the search box. For example, searching for "Dark Mode" will directly pop up the toggle switch, eliminating the need to open the Settings page.
A user commented that they hoped this new search would replace the Start Menu, calling it outdated and something they try to avoid using. This remark drew a response from Diego Baca, Microsoft's Vice President of Windows Design.He neither refuted nor agreed, but stated that the biggest challenge in designing an operating system for over a billion users is that "everyone has different preferences and workflows."
He stated that Microsoft's goal is to provide more customization options while improving performance and quality, allowing users to use Windows in their own way.
The recommendation section in the Start Menu is a classic example of trying to please everyone. While some users have consistently opposed this feature, Microsoft's research team believed it was a good idea.
In 2025, when introducing the Start Menu redesign, Microsoft excitedly referred to it as dynamic recommendations, stating that the design intent was to "accelerate your day," and emphasized that these changes were driven by user feedback.
Microsoft has promised multiple times this year to reinvigorate Windows, with specific plans including a UI refresh for Windows 11, replacing legacy interfaces with WinUI components, and transitioning to 100% native apps.Diego Baca also reiterated that they will give users more customization options because "everyone has different preferences."