The author expresses frustration with the trend of using icons in every menu item, citing Google Sheets and macOS Tahoe as examples. While icons can enhance usability, the author argues that they shouldn't be a default feature. The concern is that designers often prioritize filling space with icons rather than considering whether they genuinely aid navigation. This leads to unnecessary visual clutter and cognitive load for users. In macOS Tahoe, the inconsistency in icon usage raises questions. Some menu items, like "Settings," have icons, while others, such as "Privacy Report," do not, creating confusion about the rationale behind these choices. The author highlights how certain menus, like Finder's, can benefit from icons that visually clarify functions, but many others seem to add noise without purpose. This shift in Apple's design approach contradicts their previous guidelines, which advised against arbitrary symbols in menus to avoid confusion. The author feels that the broader adoption of icons complicates the conversation about their use. They now find it harder to advocate for minimalist designs when even companies like Apple are embracing icon-heavy menus. The article calls for thoughtful consideration of when icons are truly beneficial, rather than making them a blanket requirement across all menus.