How To Customize Your Start Screen on a Windows Phone.

Windows Phone’s unique homescreen, also known as the Start screen, is one of the differentiating factors for Windows Phone versus other mobile operating systems. All of those Live Tiles that update with information from the app they pertains to, shortcuts, and images can look unfamiliar. Fear not though, as you can easily customize it, make it more familiar, and make it your own. Here’s how.

I. Add Apps and Live Tiles to the Start Screen

1. To add an app or Live Tile to the Start screen, start by swiping to the left on the homescreen to get to the apps list on the right.

2. Scroll down and search for whichever app you want to put on the Start screen.

3. Tap and hold your finger on the app until a menu appears.

4. Select Pin to Start from the menu.

5. The app will automatically appear on the Start menu at the bottom of the screen.

II. Reorganize Live Tiles on the Start screen.

1. Once an app is on the Start screen, you might want to move it. Find the app you want to move.

2. Tap and hold your finger down on the Live Tile you want to move.

3. After a second it will appear to float above the other start menu tiles.

4. You can now hold down on it and move it around to where you want it, the other tiles will move to accomodate it.

III. Remove Live Tiles from the Start screen.

1. To remove an app from the Start screen, locate the app you want to remove.

2. Tap and hold your finger down on the Live Tile you want to remove.

3. After a second it will appear to float above the other start menu tiles.

4. Now, tap the pin with the line through it at the top right of the live tile that is floating.

This is part of our Windows Phone Basics/Tips and Tricks series. Great for anyone new to Windows Phone, or anyone just looking to learn a few tips and tricks! For all our Windows Phone Basics, head here.