Microsoft breaks down how its fixing the right-click context menu in Windows 11
One of the most used context menus in Windows will get a big update in Windows 11.
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What you need to know
Windows 11brings a refreshed look to many parts of the operating system, but changes to core elements aren’t merely cosmetic. A developerblog postfrom Microsoft breaks down how the right-click context menu within Windows 11 has been improved.
Microsoft explains that the context menu has “grown in an unregulated environment for 20 years, since Windows XP, when IContextMenu was introduced.” As a result, it has many issues, including related commands being far apart, showing commands that almost no one uses, and the most common commands being far away from where the menu opens. Microsoft worked to address these issues in Windows 11.
The blog highlights ways that Windows 11 fixes the ongoing context menu problems:
Source: Microsoft
The context menu above on the left is from Windows 11, while the older design from Windows 10 is shown on the right.
Microsoft also guides developers on the best practices to make apps work well with the right-click context menu.
Microsoft is still working on the context menus in Windows 11. For example, the latestWindows 11 Insider preview buildbrings acrylic material to context menus and right-click menus.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
