Source : Windows Latest
The Start menu of Windows 11 appears poised for its first significant update since 2021. In Windows 11 Build 26212, a fresh addition called “Companions” has surfaced, presenting as a floating panel adjacent to the Start menu. This innovation bears resemblance to the Live Tiles of the Windows 10 era and the widgets found on the widgets board.
Notably, independent developer Albacore initially uncovered references to the upcoming Start menu’s Companions feature within Build 26212. These Companions manifest as interactive widgets, residing beside the Start menu in a floating panel. Much like widgets, these extensions employ Adaptive Cards to showcase interactive cards.
Microsoft is set to offer users the ability to toggle the Compansion floating panel on either the right or left side of the Start menu, as illustrated in the provided screenshot. The demonstration exhibits widgets such as weather and financial information; however, it's essential to note that the cards depicted serve demo purposes exclusively.
Settings related to the Companions can be found under Settings > Personalization > Start. Within the Start settings page, users can manage, install, or discover additional Companions. Additionally, Microsoft will furnish a link to the developer’s site for further customization options.
It's crucial to understand that the design of the Start menu itself isn't undergoing a significant overhaul. Pinned apps will still be displayed on the left side by default, alongside the inclusion of popular apps and the recommended section featuring recently opened or added files and apps.
The introduction of a new floating panel on the right side could furnish users with features like weather and a clock. However, users retain the flexibility to relocate the panel to the left side of the Start menu.
This novel floating Companion panel leverages a feature known as Adaptive Cards, which, while lesser-known, has been integrated into Microsoft’s ecosystem for several years. Adaptive Cards, written in JSON, offer a straightforward data format, enabling developers to utilize them seamlessly across various apps, services, and platforms.
Previously utilized in applications such as Cortana, Skype, and Windows Timeline, Adaptive Cards are also the driving force behind Windows 11’s widgets board. With the Companions feature, Microsoft may empower developers to extend the Start menu.
While fully floating desktop gadgets may not be imminent, this feature could reintroduce a concept akin to Live Tiles. Developers have the opportunity to craft their own Start menu widgets using JSON-based Adaptive Cards and distribute them via the Microsoft Store.
For instance, users can access the Microsoft Store, download Companions, and integrate widgets like a Clock or Weather directly into the floating panel next to the Start menu. Microsoft ensures ease of access to disable the feature or modify its location through the Windows 11 settings.
The company is currently in the exploration phase with this feature, with potential rollouts to testers expected later this year.
