One of the biggest new features in Windows 11 may be the support for widgets, something which Microsoft is now focusing on expanding each and every single update.

However, it looks like the widgets were designed to debut in Windows a lot earlier, as new concepts shared online by former Microsoftie Steven Sinofsky (via XDA) show this feature isn't exactly new.

Actually, the video, with a look at early versions of Windows 8 plus some from the features Microsoft planned for this controversial operating-system, reveals the software giant wanted the widgets to become part of the desktop experience back in 2012.

The feature didn't make the cut, but instead, Microsoft went all-in on the live tiles and also the new Start screen. The video offers us having a take a look at an earlier version of the beginning screen, and among the screenshots indicating that Microsoft actually wanted to integrate the Microsoft Store right into this new experience.

In Windows 11, Microsoft is betting big on widgets as a new method to reach the content that matters for you, including news and information.

"Even when we're at our most focused and creative we still breaks - a minute to check on in with the outside or give ourselves a mental reset. Today, we often pick up our phones to check the news, weather or notifications," Microsoft said when it announced the first version of Windows 11.

"Now, you can open a similarly curated view from your desktop. Whenever you open your personalized feed it slides across your screen like a sheet of glass therefore it doesn't disrupt what you're doing. For creators and publishers, Widgets also opens new property within Windows to provide personalized content. Our aspiration would be to create a vibrant pipeline for global brands and local creators alike, in a way that both consumers and creators may benefit."