Microsoft testing floating widgets for Start Menu on Windows 11: Report

Microsoft is reportedly testing a floating widget feature for the Windows Start Menu in the latest beta version of the Windows 11 operating system. According to a report by the Android Authority, the new feature will be called “Start Menu Companions” and is already available for select users through Windows 11 beta build 26212 for testing.

These Start Menu Companions are apps that provide “Adaptive Cards” that are displayed on a “Floating island” alongside the Start Menu, the report adds. Microsoft allows users to configure these Companion widgets from the Start option on the Personalisation page within the Settings menu.