You can't customize the Start menu, right?

Can’t you define the start menu by yourself?

User interface design has always been an important part of the computer system, among which the start menu is one of the common core elements in the operating system. However, customization options for the Start menu seem to be an unattainable wish for many users using various operating systems. So, why can't the start menu be defined by itself?

First, let’s look at Microsoft’s Windows operating system. The Start menu it launched in 1995 is well known to most users. The Start menu is located on the taskbar and lists options such as programs, folders, and system settings that users can launch in the form of icons and text. However, although many commonly used functions and applications are displayed on the Start menu, users cannot freely place their frequently used programs on the Start menu. This limitation means that users can only access their commonly used programs by opening folders, searching, or using shortcut keys, making them inconvenient to use. In versions after Windows 8, Microsoft canceled the traditional Start menu and introduced a new "Metro" style interface, which further restricted users' customization of the Start menu.

Unlike Windows, Apple's Mac OS operating system provides a feature called "Launch Pad", which is similar to the Windows Start menu. Users can customize the icons on the Launchpad by adding, deleting and moving applications. This enables users to place frequently used applications on the launch pad for quick access. Additionally, users can create folders and stacks to organize applications. Although this customization option is limited, Mac OS offers better Start menu customization in comparison.

So, why do major operating system manufacturers impose restrictions on the start menu?

First of all, the design goal of the operating system is to meet the needs of the widest possible range of users. As an important part of the user interface, the start menu should be designed as simple and intuitive as possible to facilitate users to quickly locate and launch applications. If the Start menu is customized too freely, it can result in a user interface that is too cluttered to quickly find the apps you need. In addition, in order to ensure the stability and security of the system, operating system manufacturers often choose fixed menu layouts to reduce incorrect operations and potential security risks.

Secondly, operating system manufacturers can also push users to use specific functions or applications by restricting the customization of the Start menu. For example, in the Windows operating system, Microsoft has been working hard to promote its own applications and services, such as Office suites, Edge browser, etc. If users can freely add their favorite applications to the Start menu, it may affect the market share and interests of manufacturers.

In addition, for ordinary users, the customization function of the start menu may not be their most concerned aspect. On the contrary, they are more concerned about whether the operating system is stable, whether the functions are practical, whether the speed is smooth, etc. Therefore, operating system manufacturers may be more willing to invest in improving other aspects of performance and user experience, rather than doing too much work on customizing the Start menu.

In general, there are many reasons why the start menu cannot be customized. Operating system manufacturers try to ensure simplicity and stability of the user interface by limiting the customization of the Start menu, pushing users to use specific functions or applications, and focusing on other more important functions and performance improvements. However, customization options for the Start menu are still a hope for some users. It is hoped that in future operating systems, manufacturers can pay more attention to user needs and provide more start menu customization functions to meet the needs of different users while maintaining system stability and security.

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