Microsoft is rolling out a major usability update to the right-click context menu in Windows 11, aiming to streamline the often bloated menu that frustrated many users. The change arrives via a preview build and appears to reduce the menu’s vertical size by as much as one-third in File Explorer and supported apps.
The new design groups less-used actions, like compressing files, copying paths or freeing up space, into a submenu named “Manage File,” rather than listing every option separately. Cloud sync options such as OneDrive now appear under provider-specific headers. Testing shows the menu’s vertical footprint decreases significantly, especially on 16:9 displays, where it used to extend to 75 percent of screen height.
Microsoft recently confirmed that the current FlyoutMenu control lacked support for grouped actions, so it is introducing a new SplitMenuFlyoutItem API with WinUI 3. That will allow developers to define primary and secondary actions, reducing clutter and making menus more context-aware.
For day-to-day workflows this revision is subtle but meaningful. A smaller, better-organized menu means fewer mis-clicks, faster access to core tasks and less visual noise. On mobile-style laptops or dedicated workstations, the difference can feel significant. At a strategic level, this signals Microsoft is shifting focus from flashy new features to refining usability across key interaction points.
Currently the refresh is available to Windows Insiders in the Dev channel and applies to WinUI apps built with the Windows App SDK.
Microsoft has not yet confirmed if the changes will apply system-wide, including legacy menus across third-party apps. Wider rollout into the Beta Channel and public release is expected later in the update cycle.
Some experienced users caution that improvements may fall short while legacy menus and third-party shell-extensions continue to inject clutter. The ultimate benefit depends on developers adopting the updated APIs and Microsoft pushing the changes across all layers. Even so, for many the update marks a welcome move: the right-click menu is turning from a chaotic list into a focused tool.
By cleaning up one of its most frequently used interface elements, Microsoft appears to be signaling that Windows 11’s next phase may be defined less by bold new features and more by thoughtful refinement, making everyday tasks feel smoother and the interface more intuitive.