Windows 8 Start Menu on Linux: A Retro Recreation

Linux Dev Revives Divisive Windows 8 Start Menu with Python Project

A Linux developer has resurrected the often-maligned Windows 8.1 Start menu, offering a nostalgic and functional experience for users of the open-source operating system. The project, created by Reddit user N3Rumie, demonstrates the enduring appeal – and potential – of ideas once considered failures.

The original Windows 8 interface, launched in 2012, proved deeply polarizing. While intended to modernize the user experience,its radical departure from previous versions drew criticism for its complexity and unfamiliarity. However, a dedicated community continues to explore and reimagine concepts from computing’s past, and this latest effort is a prime example.

Breathing New Life into a Forgotten Interface

N3Rumie, a member of the Linux community, shared the project on a Linux subreddit, explaining a personal fondness for the Windows 8.1 Start menu as the impetus for its creation. “I especially liked the Windows 8.1 Start menu and wanted to use it under Linux as well,” the developer stated.

Built using Python and the PyQt6 framework, the application isn’t merely a visual recreation. It’s a fully functional interface capable of launching python scripts, Flatpak apps, Steam games, and native system programs. Users can extensively customize the interface, altering colors, backgrounds, tile arrangements, and creating both groups and folders. According to the developer, the current iteration boasts approximately 80% of the functionality found in the original Windows 8 Start menu.

Did you know? – Windows 8 was a meaningful departure from previous Windows versions, introducing a touch-centric interface that wasn’t well-received by many desktop users. It was followed by Windows 8.1, which addressed some of the initial criticisms.

The project quickly garnered significant attention, receiving over 600 upvotes in a short period. Initially hesitant to release the code publicly, N3Rumie ultimately shared it on Pastebin after finding GitHub too complex to navigate.

The unexpected positive response has motivated the developer to continue refining the project. This highlights a key characteristic of Linux development: a willingness to explore unconventional ideas and a collaborative spirit that fosters innovation. The project serves as a testament to the power of open-source communities to breathe new life into forgotten concepts and adapt them to new environments.

pro tip – PyQt6 is a Python binding for the Qt application framework. It allows developers to create cross-platform graphical user interfaces (GUIs) with a modern look and feel.

why, Who, What, and How?

Why: N3Rumie, a Linux user, wanted to recreate the Windows 8.1 Start menu due to a personal fondness for its design and functionality. The project demonstrates the potential for reviving ideas previously considered failures.

Who: The project was created by N3Rumie,a developer within the Linux community,and has received support and feedback from other Linux users on Reddit.

What: N3Rumie developed a fully functional Windows 8.1 Start menu interface for Linux, built using Python and PyQt6. It can launch various applications, including Python scripts, Flatpak apps, Steam games, and system programs, and is highly customizable.

How: The interface was built using Python and the PyQt6 framework. Initially shared on a Linux subreddit, the code was then made available on Pastebin. The positive community response is driving further development and refinement of the project.

As of now, the project remains under active development, with N3Rumie continuing to add features and address user feedback. The future of the project depends on continued community interest and contributions, but it already stands as a compelling example of open-source innovation and the enduring appeal of well-designed interfaces, even those initially met with resistance.