Widgets in Windows 11 are handy tools that present dynamic content directly on your taskbar without the need to open a separate application. These widgets offer real-time information on a wide range of topics such as news, stocks, weather, and other customizable options that can help you stay up-to-date with the latest information.
Windows 11 widgets can be customized, and you can also change their location, as well as hide and pin widgets. Read below to learn how to use widgets in Windows 11.
How to open the Windows 11 widgets panel
- Select the Widget icon on the left of the taskbar or press Win + W.
- In the Widgets gallery, click the + icon to add widgets.
- Select a widget with the + next to it, then click on the Close icon.
Note: You can swipe left on a touchscreen device to access the widgets panel.
How to customize a widget
- Click on the … menu at the top-right of the widget.
- Select Customize widget.
- Choose your preferences and select Save.
How to pin or unpin a widget
- Click on the … menu at the top-right of the widget.
- Select Pin widget.
- To unpin, select the Unpin widget.
How to hide a widget
- Click on the … menu at the top-right of the widget.
- Click on Hide this widget.
How to move a widget
- Hover the mouse over the widget header until it becomes a hand.
- Click on the widget and drag it to your preferred location.
How to resize a widget
- Click on the … menu at the top-right of the widget.
- Choose from Small, Medium, or Large.
How to customize the news feed
The widgets board also displays a news feed collated from your interests. You can personalize it from the widget settings on the board.
- On the widgets board, click on Widget settings, then select Personalized feed.
- Click on Manage interests and browse the My Interests page on Microsoft Edge.
- Click on the + sign to follow or unfollow a category in your feed.
- To remove a news category, click on the Block icon.
How to remove the widget icon from the desktop
- Click on Settings and select Personalization.
- Click on Taskbar, then select Taskbar items.
- Then switch the Widgets toggle to Off.
