Microsoft Temporarily Removes Widgets from Microsoft Store to Enhance Windows 11 Experience

In a move aimed at improving user experience, Microsoft has announced the temporary removal of several widgets from the Microsoft Store. This update, revealed today on the official Windows health website via the Message Center, signals a commitment to refining the Windows 11 Widgets board.

Widgets Affected by the Change

Among the widgets that have been taken down are the Calendar and To Do applications. Additionally, users in specific regions may notice that the Photos, Microsoft 365 Feed, and Family widgets have also been removed from availability.

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the Widgets Board, the Calendar and To Do widgets have been temporarily withdrawn from the Microsoft Store collection. Please note that in certain areas, the Photos, Family, and Microsoft 365 Feed widgets may also be unavailable.

Notification and Feature Rollout

In light of these changes, Microsoft has updated its support documentation to include a banner notification that informs users about the unavailability of these particular widget features. The company has emphasized that they are in the process of gradually rolling out new and improved features, which may explain the current limitations.

For those who missed the initial announcement, Microsoft introduced enhanced Widgets for Windows 11 24H2 back in August with the KB5041865 preview update, making it a part of the stable release available to all users, including both Copilot+ and non-Copilot+ users.

User Reception and Future Directions

Overall, this strategic decision appears to be a positive step, especially considering that feedback from users has indicated dissatisfaction with the current widget functionalities. By temporarily removing certain widgets, Microsoft aims to refine and ultimately enhance the overall Windows 11 experience.

Stay tuned for further updates as Microsoft implements these changes and works towards delivering a more robust Widgets feature set.

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