Latest Windows 11 Update Adds Redesigned Start Menu, Colored Battery Icons, and Smarter AI Tools

Microsoft has started rolling out a major Windows 11 update that brings a completely redesigned Start Menu, new colored battery icons, and a suite of AI-powered features designed for Copilot+ PCs. The update, known as KB5067036, is available for both Windows 11 version 25H2 and 24H2, and introduces several design and performance improvements.

Revamped Start Menu with New Views

The new Start Menu design was first previewed earlier this year and is now available to all users. It includes a fresh, scrollable “All Apps” section that makes it easier to browse installed applications. Microsoft has added two new layout modes:

• Category View: Automatically groups apps by type and highlights frequently used ones.
• Grid View: Displays apps alphabetically for a clean, organized look.

The Start Menu now features a responsive layout that adjusts dynamically based on screen size. Larger displays can show more pinned apps, recommendations, and categories by default. Users can customize or disable certain sections through Settings → Personalization.

New Color-Coded Battery Icons

One of the most noticeable changes in this update is the introduction of color-coded battery indicators on the taskbar. Laptop users will now see battery icons that change color depending on power status:

• Green: Charging
• Yellow: Battery Saver Mode
• Red: Critically Low Battery

This visual upgrade allows users to quickly gauge battery status at a glance without opening the power menu. The icons still reside in the familiar bottom-right corner of the taskbar.

Enhanced Phone Link Integration

Microsoft has also enhanced Phone Link integration directly within the Start Menu. A new button beside the Search bar lets users view and manage content from connected iPhones and Android devices. The feature is rolling out globally and is expected to be available to European users later this year.

AI-Powered Voice Access and Image Editing

Windows 11’s Copilot+ PCs are getting new AI upgrades too. The update introduces Fluid Dictation — an intelligent voice-to-text feature that removes filler words and corrects grammar in real time. The system runs locally using on-device language models, ensuring both speed and privacy by processing data without sending it to Microsoft’s servers.

The Photos app also receives AI-powered editing tools capable of automatically enhancing images, removing backgrounds, and applying filters with a single click.

Phased Rollout for Stability

Microsoft is deploying this update in two phases: new features are being rolled out gradually to minimize bugs, while critical fixes are available immediately for all compatible systems. Users can check for updates manually by navigating to Settings → Windows Update → Check for Updates.

With this release, Windows 11 continues its steady evolution into a more intelligent, visually refined, and user-friendly operating system — blending clean design with the power of local AI processing.