Microsoft announces widgets for Windows 11, promising 'personalized feed powered by AI'

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Windows 11 will feature widgets that app developers can use to create interactive experiences.

Windows 11 Widgets Official
Windows 11 Widgets Official (Image credit: Microsoft)

What you need to know

  • Windows 11 will include widgets that will work with developer apps.
  • Before the OS was officially announced, it was believed that the widgets might be limited to Microsoft.
  • Developers will be able to use widgets to build interactive experiences.

Microsoft announced Windows 11 today, including a long list of new features. The new operating system will support widgets, allowing developers to create interactive experiences. Widgets are popular on Android, iOS, and iPadOS, so adding support for them on Windows should help Microsoft catch up with its competition.

Windows 11 Widgets Fullscreen

Source: Microsoft (Image credit: Source: Microsoft)

Before the official announcement of Windows 11, it was believed that widgets might be limited to content from Microsoft, essentially making it a repurposed news and interests widget. That is not the case, as Microsoft explained that it will open the platform up to developers.

Microsoft's Panos Panay calls widgets a "beautiful sheet of glass" that delivers a personalized feed powered by AI." He didn't detail how the feature will work, but it has been confirmed by Microsoft that at some point, developers will be able to access it.

This is a developing story. We will add more information as it becomes available.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.