Microsoft tests new widget features in Windows 11 update
Microsoft is currently experimenting with a new feature in its latest preview build of Windows 11, known as build 26200. The update, released via the Canary channel, Microsoft's primary testing platform, introduces several changes. Among these modifications are two significant updates to widgets. The most notable change allows developers to send notifications from their widgets directly to the taskbar button.
User reactions may influence widget notification feature
The new feature means that users will receive a notification on their taskbar button, whenever an event of potential interest occurs within a widget. However, Microsoft acknowledges that not all users may welcome this change. To address potential resistance, the company has provided an option for users to opt-out if they find the feature intrusive. Initially, this feature will be introduced on a limited scale in the European Economic Area (EEA) for trial purposes.
Additional changes to taskbar icons
Another tweak in the build 26200 involves an alteration to the widgets button itself. Microsoft has reworked this button to make the icons on the taskbar clearer for users. Alongside these widget-centric modifications, Microsoft is also revamping another taskbar icon - the energy saver icon situated in the system tray. The tech giant has decided to revert this icon back to its original design - a leaf icon.
Microsoft acknowledges unexpected issue
Microsoft has also noted an unusual issue with this preview build and others in the Dev and Beta channels. The problem pertains to Copilot, a feature of Windows 11, which unexpectedly launches itself after a PC restarts. This anomaly is not linked to previous tests of automatic launch on boot behavior. Microsoft is actively working on a solution to this unexpected issue.
