Windows is finally redesigning the right-click menu—and it’s about time 📜

The problem: an overloaded menu 🗂️

Over the years, every system update and app integration has added more options to this once-simple tool. The result? A chaotic list of redundant commands, confusing nesting, and irrelevant shortcuts that slow users down. Even Microsoft engineers admit that the mess hurts usability—with duplicate entries and options that often make no sense in context.

Source : Microsoft

To fix it, Microsoft is experimenting with “nested menus” that adapt in real time. Instead of dumping everything into one massive list, options will be grouped by category or file type—“Open,” “Open with,” “Share,” etc. For instance, all image-related actions could appear under a single expandable entry, keeping things tidy without losing functionality.

A cleaner, smarter design ✨

This isn’t just a visual refresh—it’s a usability overhaul. The new contextual menu will be dynamic, showing only the most relevant options depending on what you’re doing or which file you’ve selected. Third-party developers are also being encouraged to use the new WinUI API, which should bring more consistent, intelligently integrated menus across apps. The goal? A lean, intuitive right-click experience that feels as polished as it looks.

When will we see it ? ⏳

Good news: the redesign is officially in the works. Bad news: you’ll have to wait a bit. The new contextual menu is still in concept and development stages, with early versions expected to roll out to Windows 11 Insider builds in the coming months. A full release will come “when it’s ready”—classic Microsoft timing.

A smoother Windows experience ahead ? 🚀

If all goes well, the right-click menu might finally feel like an ally again—fast, smart, and actually contextual. Microsoft seems determined to declutter Windows and deliver a more fluid experience. But success will depend on whether app developers embrace the new system.

👉🏾 So, what do you think? Is the cluttered right-click menu one of your Windows pet peeves? What would your ideal version look like? Drop your thoughts in the comments—let’s talk usability.