**Windows 11 Feature Showcase: Displaying Your PC’s Build**
Microsoft has introduced a new feature that allows third-party developers to add widgets to Windows 11, along with a new “top cards” summary of your PC within the Settings menu. These changes are being rolled out as part of the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4800 (Beta Channel), indicating that they may eventually become available to all Windows 11 users.
**Flexibility for Third-Party Widgets**
One of the key changes Microsoft is making involves providing more flexibility for third-party developers in creating widgets for Windows 11. In December, Microsoft started allowing developers to use HTML served from a remote URL for Windows widgets, rather than the existing Adaptive Card schema format. This change opens up new possibilities for developers to enhance the widget panel within Windows 11. Previously, the HTML development process was restricted to users in the European Economic Area, but now it is being made more widely available.
**Introduction of “Top Cards” in Windows Settings**
Another significant change is the addition of “top cards” in the Windows Settings menu, specifically within the “About” section (Settings > System > About). This new feature provides a quick summary of the components of your system, albeit with minimal details at present. While the current version of Top Cards may seem somewhat basic, it offers a convenient way to get an overview of the hardware components in your PC.
**Personal Touch: Mark’s Perspective**
Mark, a seasoned technology journalist with a wealth of experience, shares his thoughts on the new Top Cards feature. Despite its simplicity, he appreciates any tool that simplifies the process of understanding the components within a PC. As someone who has covered technology for years, Mark recognizes the value of features that make it easier for users to access essential information about their systems. He remains hopeful that Microsoft will continue to enhance this feature in future updates, providing users with even more detailed insights into their PCs.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s latest changes to Windows 11 offer exciting possibilities for both developers and users. By introducing greater flexibility for widget development and a new summary feature in the Settings menu, Microsoft is making it easier for users to access key information about their PCs. As these changes are gradually rolled out to more users, it will be interesting to see how they are received and whether they lead to further innovations in the Windows 11 ecosystem.