Microsoft is reducing the number of widgets shown on the Windows 11 lock screen by default. Weather is now the only widget shown by default for many users, while other available widgets can be added again.
Weather becomes the default lock screen widget
Microsoft added the change to the release notes for the Windows 11 KB5120998 preview update. The company says the quieter default first rolled out to new users in July and is now reaching existing users. The change applies to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2.
KB5120998 was followed by the September 8 security update, KB5124008. Microsoft is using a gradual rollout, so installing the update does not guarantee that the new lock screen layout will appear immediately.
How to add the other widgets
To add more information to the lock screen, open Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. Microsoft says other available widgets can be added from that page.
Windows Latest first reported the change after Microsoft updated its release notes. BetaNews also reported the rollout on September 20.
What changes for Windows 11 users
This is a default setting change, not the removal of the other lock screen widgets. Users who prefer the previous layout can add them again, while others can leave Weather as the only widget.
Microsoft’s KB5120998 release notes describe the change as a way to provide a quieter lock screen. The same update also added controls for the taskbar, Start menu, and Windows Search, while the lock screen change is being delivered through the gradual rollout system.
Sooraj Raj is a programmer, blogger and professional developer with an interest in technology research and publishing. He writes about technology developments and shares information in a clear, straightforward way.
