Windows 11 seems set to support third-party widgets soon
Third-party widgets may be just around the corner for Windows 11.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
Microsoft appears to be making preparations to support third-party widgets onWindows 11. A screenshot of alleged code from the Widget manifest that mentions downloading new widgets through the Microsoft Store was recently shared byTwitter user FireCube.
“Widget manifest update shows more evidence of being able to download third party widgets and updates from the Microsoft Store,” stated the tweet.
We’ve known that support for third-party widgets was on the way to Windows 11 for quite some time. Our senior editor Zac Bowden discussed the feature in his piece coveringwhat to expect from Surface and Windows in 2022.
“Microsoft is also expected to expand the Widgets panel with new features and support for third-party widgets,” said Bowden in December 2021. “I’m told some developers have already been briefed on how third-party widgets will work.”
Assuming plans have not changed, users will be able to download widgets through the Microsoft Store. Unpackaged apps from outside of the store should be able to have widgets as well.
The newly spotted code aligns with previous reports as well asseparate leaksfrom earlier this year.
While Microsoft did not show any third-party widgets during its recentWindows 11 event, the company did provide a glimpse of a fullscreen Widgets Panel. That expanded panel was initially announced in June 2021 but has not shipped at this point, even in preview form. Microsoft also showed the ability to sign into the Widgets Panel with both work and personal accounts.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
It’s clear that Microsoft has plans for widgets on Windows 11. The company will potentially share more details atBuild 2022, which will run from May 24-26.
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_.
