New Windows 11 widgets for Spotify, Facebook Messenger, and more roll out to Beta Channel Insiders
New widgets are here for Insiders in the Beta Channel.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
Microsoft released a pair of builds to Insiders in the Beta Channel this week. Windows 11 Build 22621.1325 and Build 22623.1325 are now available to download. The former has features turned off by default while the latter has new features enabled by default.
The biggest addition is the rollout of widgets for Facebook Messenger, Spotify, Phone Link, and Xbox Game Pass. Microsoft is working to make the Widgets Panel more functional by adding support for third-party widgets. Theblog postannouncing this week’s builds also includes details on how to create widgets for Windows 11.
Microsoft alsoshipped a Windows 11 build to Dev Channel Insidersthis week.
Build 22621.1325 & 22623.1325: What’s new
New Widgets: Messenger, Spotify, Phone Link, and Game Pass
We are beginning to roll out support for new preview widgets forMessenger,Spotify,Phone Link, andXbox(Game Pass) to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel. To give them a try, go to thewidgets collectionin the Microsoft Store and update to the latest version of the apps. Then open the widgets board and navigate to the widgets picker by clicking the “+” button at the top-right of the board to pin your widgets.
New commercial policy: Enable features introduced via servicing that are off by default
This new policy enables commercial customers to enable features introduced via servicing (outside of the annual feature update) that are off by default for devices that have their Windows updates managed. Windows update managed devices are those that have their Windows updates managed via policy; whether via the cloud using Windows Update for Business or on-premises with Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).Learn more about this new policy here.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Build 22623.1325: Changes and Improvements
Start menu
For devices that are Azure Active Directory (AAD) joined, we are personalizing your experience by delivering AI-powered recommended content within your Start menu. When you open the Start menu, you will find related content to help you prepare for upcoming meetings, quickly access files you’re collaborating on, and more.
Build 22623.1325: Fixes
Taskbar & System Tray
Fixed an issue that was causing taskbar to be cut off after resolution changes.
Build 22621.1325 & 22623.1325: Fixes
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
