Windows 11 is getting a new feature that will allow users to pin widgets to the desktop, similar to the discontinued Windows Vista gadgets. This feature will enhance the productivity and customization of the Windows 11 desktop, and will also support third-party widgets.
Windows Vista gadgets were mini-applications that could be placed on the desktop or on a sidebar. They could display various information, such as weather, news, clock, calendar, etc. Users could also download and install more gadgets from the web.
Windows Vista gadgets were discontinued in Windows 7, where they were renamed as Windows Desktop Gadgets and could only be placed on the desktop. They were also removed from Windows 8 due to security concerns.
Windows 11 already has a Widgets feature that can be accessed from the taskbar or by swiping from the left edge of the screen. The Widgets feature shows a board with various widgets, such as weather, news, calendar, photos, etc.
What is the Difference Between Widgets and Gadgets?
However, unlike Windows Vista gadgets, these widgets are locked to the left-hand side of the screen and are limited in functionality. Users cannot resize, move, or customize them.
According to documents seen by Windows Latest, Microsoft is planning to change that by allowing users to pin widgets to the desktop and access them via the Widgets board. This means that users can have their favorite widgets always visible on their desktop and interact with them easily.
The pinned gadgets will also support third-party widgets, which means that developers can create their own widgets using Microsoft’s Adaptive Cards platform. This platform uses Microsoft’s Chromium web technology to create web-based programs that can integrate with Win32 and PWA apps.
When will widgets on desktop be available on Windows 11?
Microsoft has not officially announced when widgets on desktop will be available on Windows 11. However, some sources suggest that it could be part of an upcoming Windows 11 update.
Windows Latest also reports that Microsoft is working with developers to support third-party widgets on the desktop. This could open up a lot of possibilities for users to customize their desktop with various widgets.
Last Updated on May 25, 2023 10:52 am CEST by Markus Kasanmascheff
