Microsoft gives Windows 11’s Widgets panel a much-needed makeover

Microsoft is rolling out a major makeover for the Widgets panel in Windows 11 with the 25H2 update. The new version features a more modern design with rounded corners, a clearer structure, and support for multiple dashboards that can be grouped in a left-hand menu. The updated Widgets panel will have a greater emphasis on AI-curated content through Microsoft's Copilot assistant, which will select news and articles from MSN sources based on the user's interests. The "Curated by Copilot" feature aims to provide a more personalized and engaging Widgets experience. Widgets were originally introduced in Windows Vista as Gadgets, but the feature later disappeared and was reintroduced in Windows 11. The current Widgets panel has often been criticized as cluttered and limited in customization. The rollout of the updated Widgets experience is gradual, with the changes being delivered through server-based updates and the Copilot app. The exact launch date for the new Widgets panel has not yet been confirmed.