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Until recently, those using local accounts or not signed in could not use the Widgets Panel at all.

Now, that functionality is generally available.

Windows 11 Widgets panel

The change was spotted by Twitter user@PhantomOfEarth.

In its present form, the Widgets Panel feels more like a form of monetization than a useful feature.

It’snot possible to remove news from the panel, which is quite frustrating.

Windows 11 lock screen widgets

Additionally, very few third-party widgets are available.

Microsoft looks like it’s listening to feedback about the Widgets Panel.

The option to use the tool without a Microsoft account is a welcome change.

Windows 11 with local account

Hopefully, the company will continue to improve the feature based on user feedback.

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