In Windows 11 or 10, File Explorer allows users to preview various files using the thumbnail feature. This feature provides a quick preview of files and helps users find them faster. With the upcoming Windows 11 23H2 update, Microsoft is bringing this functionality to the Start Menu.

Unlike Windows 10, the Start menu in Windows 11 consists of three sections: All apps, Recommended, and Recently opened items. The Recommended section lists recently accessed files, such as pictures, documents, and apps. However, this section is not dynamic or interactive. But Microsoft is working on changing that.

Microsoft has introduced a new thumbnail preview feature for the recommended files section in the Start menu. This means that users can now hover over any file, such as .txt, .pdf, .jpg, .jpeg, or .png, and see a quick preview, similar to the thumbnails and details pane in File Explorer. This feature is available in Windows 11 23H2 or later.

For example, if you recently opened a picture that you need to refer back to, you can simply hover over its icon in the Start menu. A thumbnail preview will automatically appear, allowing you to glance at the picture’s content. This way, you can confirm if it’s the file you’re looking for without opening it.

It’s important to note that Microsoft has not officially confirmed this Start Menu update for Windows 11, and the feature is not currently functional.

Apart from the thumbnail preview feature, the Windows 11 23H2 update brings additional tweaks and improvements. One notable change is the introduction of a pop-up dialog or notification toast on the desktop when the camera fails to start or the shutter is closed. This dialog provides options to troubleshoot camera issues within Microsoft’s capabilities.

Furthermore, Windows 11 notifications have been enhanced with a new “view notification” button, allowing users to view the content of notifications when they are in “do not disturb” mode.

Additionally, the Windows 11 23H2 update introduces the “never combined mode” for the taskbar. This toggle, found in Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors, enables users to disable the combined state of icons or running apps on the taskbar. When icons are ungrouped, users can also view the app’s label, which is useful for those who struggle to identify apps.

These tweaks and improvements are part of the Windows 11 23H2 update, which aims to enhance the user experience and provide a more efficient and convenient operating system.