How to enable new Windows lock screen widgets on Windows 11

Microsoft is introducing new Windows Lock Screen widgets for Windows 11, notably including sports and weather updates. These enhancements, which improve features and user experience, provide a novel way to access useful information directly from the Windows Lock Screen.

Here, you will get the complete guide on how to activate these new Lock Screen widgets on Windows 11, enabling you to stay informed about the latest updates. By following a few straightforward steps, you can achieve a more personalized and informative lock screen that keeps crucial updates at your fingertips.

Verify your Windows 11 Version

Before delving into the fascinating world of new Windows Lock Screen widgets on Windows 11, ensure that your computer is operating on the appropriate version of Windows 11.

Here’s an easy method to check:

1. Quick Keyboard Shortcut:
   • Press the Windows logo key + R.
   • Type winver in the Open box, then select OK. It will pop up on the About Windows screen, displaying the Windows 11 version and build number.
2. Through Settings:
   • Navigate by selecting Start > Settings > System > About.
   • The Windows specifications section will detail the Edition, Version, Installation, OS build, and Experience.
3. Alternative Methods:
   • System Information app: Accessible via search, this app provides a complete overview, including the version and build number.
   • Command-line environments: Utilize Windows Terminal, PowerShell, or Command Prompt to dig into the version and build number.

Keep in mind, the OS Build number is crucial, particularly now that you need to upgrade your system to build 22631.3371 (KB5035942) to utilize the new Lock Screen widgets. The Windows 11 Dev build 23612 provides the New Weather Widget for those interested in trying out contemporary features. By ensuring your system is up-to-date, you can have access to the most recent features and security enhancements.

Enabling New Lock Screen Widgets Using ViveTool

ViveTool, an app from GitHub, is needed for a specific set of steps to enable new Windows Lock Screen widgets on Windows 11. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Download and Prepare ViveTool
   • Head to GitHub and download ViveTool.
   • Extract the downloaded files from a folder, preferably C:\ViveTool for easy access.
2. Run Command Prompt as Administrator
   • Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Terminal (Admin) and switch to the Command Prompt profile.
   • Go to the ViveTool folder by typing cd C:\ViveTool.
3. Enable Widgets Using ViveTool
   • In the Command Prompt, enter the command vivetool /enable /id:47921515,47921574 and press Enter.
   • Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
4. Activating the Widgets
   • Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen > Lock Screen Status.
   • Select ‘Weather and more’ to activate the new widgets.
   • Press Win + L to preview the new lock screen widgets.

Tips

• If the widgets do not appear, ensure ‘Weather and more’ is enabled in the Lockthe Lock Screen settings.
• To revert the changes, use the command vivetool /disable /id:47921515,47921574 to restart your PC.

CustomizeCustomize Lock Screen Widgets

To customize the Windows Lock Screen widgets on Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Access Lock Screen Settings:
   • Click on the Start icon, open the Settings application, go to ‘Personalization’, and then click on ‘Lock screen’.
2. Customize Your Lock Screen Background:
   • You have three options for the Lock Screen background:

1. • • Windows Spotlight: Offers a daily rotation of beautiful images from Bing, along with tips and tricks.
     • Picture: Choose a static image either from the default Windows image or collection.
     • Slideshow: Set up a slideshow of multiple images as your Lock Screen background.
2. Adjust Lock Screen Status and Additional Settings:
   • Lock Screen Status: Select an app like Mail, Weather, or Calendar to show quick notifications on the Lock Screen.
   • Disable Lock Screen Tips: If you prefer a cleaner look, uncheck the option next to ‘Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen’.
   • Testing and Additional Adjustments
     • To see the changes, press Windows logo key + L to lock your device.
     • Ensure the toggle for Show lock screen background picture on the sign-in screen is turned on for a seamless experience.

By personalizing your Windows 11 Lock Screen, you can enhance your experience every time you switch on your screen. These settings allow you to control aspects such as viewing stunning images and keeping up-to-date with the weather and your agenda.

FAQs

How can I add widgets to my Windows 11 lock screen?

To add widgets to your Windows 11 lock screen, follow these steps:

1. Click on Start > Settings.
2. Go to Personalization > Lock screen.
3. Look for the “Lock screen status” list and select it.
4. Choose an option such as Mail, Weather, or Calendar to add as a quick notification on your lock screen.

What is the process for activating new widgets on Windows 11?

To activate new widgets on Windows 11, you can:

1. Open the widgets panel by clicking the weather icon on your taskbar or pressing the Windows logo key + W.
2. Click on “Add widgets” and hit the (+) plus sign next to the widget you want to add.
3. For additional widgets, click “Find more widgets” at the bottom of the window or visit the Microsoft Store.

How do I turn on the Windows lock screen feature?

There are two methods to enable the Windows lock screen:

• Method 1: Press the Windows key and the L key (Windows + L).
• Method 2: Press Ctrl, Alt, and Del together (Ctrl + Alt + Del). On the screen that appears, click “Lock” to activate the lock screen.

How can I access the widget menu in Windows 11?

Three ways exist in Windows 11 for you to access the widget menu.:

• Press the Win+W keys together.
• If the widget is enabled on your taskbar, click the icon on the left side of the taskbar.

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