The future of Screen11 v2: Microsoft allegedly blocking customization apps in Windows 11 version 24H2

from Stardock Forums

Hi,

I saw a few videos on YouTube stating that Microsoft is restricting access to Windows 11 environment variables and such used by start menu replacement software:

  • Microsoft Blocks Customization Apps in Windows 11 Version 24H2

https://youtu.be/g0WGO_1BjwM

  • Here is the Full list of apps that could Block Upgrades to Windows 11 24H2

https://youtu.be/48C2vNdzZx8

Will these (absolutely irksome and draconian) moves by Microsoft stop Screen11 v2 from functioning?  Are there any known workarounds at this point?

Thank you,
Andrew

compatibility start menu products
2,642 views 1 replies
Reply #1 from Stardock Forums Top

Start 11v2 will not be affected by Microsofts policy what so ever. This is because start 11 is an explorer extension and uses windows 11 parts. Other programs such as explorerpatcher function differently as they replace explorer parts built in windows 11's for windows 10's parts instead. The modifications to the Windows 11 explorer is what is being targeted with Microsofts changes in policy. However, the current blocks do not actually prevent windows 11 explorer modifications from happening long term. They are still allowed to function. What they do prevent is for potentially unsupported programs from loading onto 24h2. This is actually a positive because the current version of explorerpatcher would in fact make windows 11 explorer crash because it is not compatible. So the work around here would simply wait until explorerpatcher actually updates the program specifically for 24h2.

Other programs such as startallback already have workarounds so each explorer modification software will be affected to a different degree here. But overall, I will have to say start 11v2 is the safest bet long term as far as start menu replacements go. This is because explorer extensions will be supported by Microsoft policy. However explorer modifications could one day end up blocked completely by Microsoft.