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Microsoft Is Testing New Floating Widgets In Windows 11 Start Menu

Unlock the future of productivity with Microsoft's latest innovation: Floating Widgets in the Windows 11 Start Menu. Experience seamless multitasking and effortless organization as you navigate through your digital workspace. Stay ahead of the curve with this groundbreaking feature, currently undergoing testing. Elevate your Windows experience with Microsoft's commitment to user-centric design and efficiency. Explore the possibilities today!

TECH NEWSWINDOWS

Pitani Shanmukha Sai

5/10/20242 min read

black laptop computer keyboard in closeup photo
black laptop computer keyboard in closeup photo

Microsoft Testing New Start Menu Feature in Windows 11

Microsoft is currently testing an intriguing change to the Windows 11 start menu that could introduce a floating panel full of "companion" widgets. This new feature was discovered by Windows watcher Albacore in the latest test versions of Windows 11 that Microsoft has released publicly.

While Microsoft has not yet announced this feature, the "start menu companions" appear to be a way to allow developers to extend the Windows 11 start menu with widget-like functionality that lives inside a floating island that can be docked next to the start menu. It looks like developers will be able to build apps that provide widget-like information through adaptive cards — a platform-agnostic way of displaying content.

Enhancing the Windows 11 Start Menu Experience

The addition of companion widgets to the Windows 11 start menu has the potential to greatly enhance the user experience. By allowing developers to create apps that provide widget-like information, users will have quick access to relevant and personalized content right from the start menu.

These companion widgets could display a variety of information, such as weather updates, news headlines, calendar events, and more. Users can customize their start menu with the widgets that are most useful to them, creating a personalized and efficient workflow.

With the ability to dock the floating panel next to the start menu, users can easily access the companion widgets without obstructing their view of other open applications. This feature promotes multitasking and productivity by providing at-a-glance information without the need to switch between different apps or windows.

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Expanding Possibilities for Developers

The introduction of companion widgets in the Windows 11 start menu opens up new possibilities for developers. By leveraging adaptive cards, developers can create apps that seamlessly integrate with the start menu and provide valuable information to users.

Adaptive cards are a platform-agnostic way of displaying content, meaning that developers can build once and have their apps work across different devices and platforms. This allows for a consistent user experience and simplifies the development process.

Developers can utilize the power of adaptive cards to deliver real-time updates, interactive elements, and personalized content to users. Whether it's displaying the latest stock market trends, tracking fitness goals, or providing reminders, the companion widgets offer a versatile platform for developers to engage with users.

Expanding Possibilities for Developers

The introduction of companion widgets in the Windows 11 start menu opens up new possibilities for developers. By leveraging adaptive cards, developers can create apps that seamlessly integrate with the start menu and provide valuable information to users.

Adaptive cards are a platform-agnostic way of displaying content, meaning that developers can build once and have their apps work across different devices and platforms. This allows for a consistent user experience and simplifies the development process.

Developers can utilize the power of adaptive cards to deliver real-time updates, interactive elements, and personalized content to users. Whether it's displaying the latest stock market trends, tracking fitness goals, or providing reminders, the companion widgets offer a versatile platform for developers to engage with users.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the addition of companion widgets to the Windows 11 start menu is a significant development that brings increased functionality and personalization to the operating system. With the ability to dock a floating panel full of widgets next to the start menu, users can easily access relevant information without interrupting their workflow. This feature also presents new opportunities for developers to create apps that seamlessly integrate with the start menu and deliver valuable content to users. As Microsoft continues to refine this feature, users can look forward to an enhanced Windows 11 experience that is tailored to their needs and preferences.

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