I love Windows Mobile Professional.  One of the features that I like the most is the Start Menu, as it provides a simple means of accessing multiple programs.  The built in Start Menu that is included in Windows Mobile is quite suitable for most.  However, for some users, the default offering may start seeming a bit lacking.  Where are the cascading submenus?  Where are the shortcuts to various controls?  If you find yourself wanting more, I recommend taking a look at QuickMenu.  QuickMenu is a light-weight, free system level program that can completely replace the standard Windows Mobile Start Menu.

QuickMenu stands above the default Start Menu by adding support for cascading menus, providing the user with direct access to all of the programs installed on the device.  Application shortcuts that are placed in folders can be easily expanded.  This is definitely much quicker than going into the Programs section offered by the built in Start Menu.

Additionally, QuickMenu provides direct access to the settings panels of the device.  With Settings a default option on the new menu, you can easily navigate the menus as they cascade.

The last feature that we’re going to take a quick look at is the “QuickMenu” submenu.  The “QuickMenu” submenu provides access to the wireless functions of the device.  Expanding the choices, the ability to toggle wifi or bluetooth is available.  The user can also easily toggle the screen orientation or SIP used.  The submenu also provides support for “Hibernate”, which triggers a sequence to reclaim consumed RAM.  If cascading menu support, the ability to access the system settings quicker, or the ability to toggle the radio states on your device wasn’t enough, the “Hibernate” option should be enough to tip you in favor of QuickMenu.  Selecting the option is much quicker than rebooting the handheld and can release several megs of RAM.  My typical amount released is between 3 MB and 5 MB, depending on what I have been running.

If you haven’t already downloaded and installed a copy of QuickMenu to your Windows Mobile Professional device, you can get the latest version here.