14 DAY TRIAL // If you’re a long-time Windows user, you probably remember that the introduction of hamburger menus in Microsoft’s operating system was quite a controversial decision, with many criticizing the software firm for using Android-inspired elements for its own products.
And now that everyone has already gotten used to hamburger menus in Windows 10 apps, Microsoft seems to be planning a new change that involves removing them completely.
This is what happened in the latest Insider update of the Photos app that was released to users who are part of the testing program only a few hours ago.
Ditching the burgers
Specifically, version 16.1003.10012.0, which is shipped to the Fast ring of the Windows Insider program, comes with several changes, and on PCs it removes the hamburger menu and switches to pivots.
This is clearly a little bit surprising, but the new design certainly makes more sense for Windows 10 users, mostly because everything appears to be more well-organized now, especially in the albums section.
Additionally, Windows 10 Mobile users are getting new headers that are black instead of gray, while settings have been reordered to make it easier to find the options you are looking for. There is also a new option to toggle between dark and light visual styles, as well as an animation when photos are minimized.
Certainly, these are all welcome changes, but for the moment, Microsoft is still experimenting, and this is why only insiders can give them a try. Depending on the feedback the company receives, the new Photos app can be released to retail users sooner or later, so we’ll keep you posted on this.
The Photos app comes pre-installed on Windows 10 and is offered as a universal app, so it features that same look and functionality on both PCs and phones. These are clearly welcome changes, but again insiders are playing a key role here to help improve the app for retail users.