New widget included in the latest preview build

Aug 5, 2021 19:25 GMT  ·  By

Windows 11 is supposed to be an operating system for everybody, and to accomplish this purpose, Microsoft is improving it on all fronts.

Most recently, Microsoft has used the Windows Insider program to introduce an all-new Family widget that allows users to see the activity of other members of the group.

In other words, it’s a widget that makes it possible for parents to see what their kids have been doing on the PC, as long as a Microsoft account is configured accordingly.

The new family widget supports all Windows languages and regions and is available as long as a Microsoft account is used.

Widgets in Windows 11

The new widgets experience in Windows 11 is supposed to make it easier for users to perform certain tasks right from their desktops.

Replacing the news and interests experience previously included in Windows 10, the widgets screen is supposed to provide one-click access to all kinds of stuff, including news, weather info, calendar entries and so much more.

“Even when we’re at our most focused and creative we still need breaks – a moment to check in with the outside world or give ourselves a mental reset. Today, we often pick up our phones to check the news, weather or notifications. Now, you can open a similarly curated view directly from your desktop. 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,” Microsoft explained.

“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.”

Widgets are very likely to evolve substantially over time, especially as new ones are being rolled out. The new feature will be available from day one once Windows 11 launches in October.