14 DAY TRIAL // Widgets are one of the biggest new features in Windows 11, but on the other hand, they are currently limited to first-party apps that are pre-loaded with the OS.
Microsoft wants to change this and actually make the widgets useful, so the company wants to unlock this feature for third-party app makers too.
In other words, Windows 11 will soon support third-party widgets, and Microsoft watcher FireCube has recently come across evidence that such an announcement is just around the corner.
More specifically, what FireCube discovered is developer documentation on how to publish widgets on the Microsoft Store, as this is obviously the place where users will be able to discover new widgets.
At this point, there’s no ETA as to when the feature could go live, but of course, expect the third-party widgets to initially become available for insiders for testing purposes.
Windows 11 widgets
Microsoft hinted from the very beginning that it wants widgets to also be available for other developers, though no further information on this front was originally available.
“When you open your personalized feed it slides across your screen like a sheet of glass so it doesn’t disrupt what you’re doing. For creators and publishers, Widgets also opens new real estate within Windows to deliver personalized content. Our aspiration is to create a vibrant pipeline for global brands and local creators alike, in a way that both consumers and creators can benefit,” the company said.
“Windows 11 brings you closer to the news and information you care about faster with Widgets – a new personalized feed powered by AI and best-in-class browser performance from Microsoft Edge.”
Most likely, support for third-party widgets will show up in Windows Insider builds in the coming months ahead of a full launch for users in the first feature update due in the summer.