Windows 12 could see a substantial system redesign in order to include a more AI-centric user experience. The start button could thus be replaced with Copilot AI, which is already available as a preview version in the latest Windows 11 update.
they were corralled into the top of the start menu
Sounds like they didn't try to "kill of the start menu", then.
And… Did you not read the article?
I... Did read the article which is why I know it's just got a clickbait headline and there are no plans to replace the start button. Did... you not read the article?