How to Customise Lock Screen Widgets and Status Information in Windows 11

The Windows 11 lock screen serves as the gateway to your PC every time you wake your computer or step away from your desk. Rather than displaying an empty static photograph, modern Windows 11 updates introduce interactive lock screen widgets powered by MSN. These cards display real-time local weather forecasts, stock market trends, live sports scores, and highway traffic updates directly on the lock screen before you ever enter your password or scan your fingerprint.

Lock Screen Requirements in Windows 11

Interactive multi-card lock screen widgets are available on Windows 11 Version 23H2 and 24H2 with the latest cumulative quality updates installed. If you prefer a minimalist screen without commercial news and stock updates, Windows 11 also allows you to disable widget overlays entirely or restrict the display strictly to productivity apps like Calendar or Mail.

Adding Interactive Widgets to the Lock Screen

To turn on rich lock screen cards in Windows 11:

1. Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I.
2. In the left sidebar, click on Personalisation.
3. Click on Lock screen.
4. Locate the Lock screen status setting.
5. Click the dropdown menu and select Weather and more.
6. Press Win + L to lock your PC and verify the new widget cards appearing neatly along the bottom edge of your display.

Choosing a Minimalist or Productivity App Status

If you find stock tickers and sports scores distracting on a work laptop:

1. Return to Settings > Personalisation > Lock screen.
2. Click the Lock screen status dropdown menu.
3. Select Mail to see unread inbox badges, Calendar to view upcoming appointments, or Weather for a subtle single temperature icon.
4. To keep your lock screen completely clean with nothing but the time and date, select None.

Personalising Lock Screen Backgrounds

Complement your widgets with beautiful daily imagery:

• Windows Spotlight: In the Personalise your lock screen dropdown, choose Windows Spotlight. Microsoft will automatically download stunning high-definition landscapes and wildlife photography from around the globe daily.
• Picture or Slideshow: Select Picture to choose a specific personal family photo, or select Slideshow to rotate through your personal Pictures folder.
• Lock Screen Tips and Facts: Uncheck “Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen” to prevent Microsoft from showing promotional Windows feature suggestions over your wallpaper.