I Can’t Use My Android Phone Without These 10 Widgets

My Android home screen is my command center. Here I can quickly access the information and controls I need most using a curated set of widgets. From simple ones like clock and weather to note-taking and screen time tracking, here are 10 widgets that are essential in my daily life.

1

Clock and weather

When it comes to the main widgets on my Android phone, the clock and weather widgets easily take the top spot. Of course, Android phones already display the time in the corner of the screen, but having a dedicated widget takes it one step further. It offers quick access to the current time, date, and even your next alarm, all at a glance.

The weather feature is also invaluable, especially for people like me living in a city where the weather can change on a whim. If I need to grab an umbrella, get dressed, or apply sunscreen, the answer is right on my home screen, helping me avoid any nasty surprises.

2

Battery

I’ll admit, battery anxiety is a real problem for me. That’s why I can’t go a day without my trusty battery widget.

It not only shows my phone’s battery status, but also monitors the status of my Galaxy Buds2 and Galaxy Watch. This way, I always know when to put my headphones back in their case or quickly charge my watch before heading out.

3

Samsung Notes

When it comes to quickly jotting down thoughts, making a to-do list, or sketching out ideas, Samsung Notes is my favorite app. I went all in by adding two widgets from the app to the secondary home screen.

The first widget is a shortcut for creating a new note. It allows me to quickly write, record or draw with just one touch. There’s also a Notes List widget that displays my important notes right on the home screen. It’s like a digital bulletin board where I can quickly view my latest to-do lists, meeting notes, or reminders.

Remember speed dial? The Google Contacts direct dial widget is a modern, streamlined version of this important feature. I added a Direct Dial widget to my home screen that allows me to call my wife with one tap.

I also added the Favorites widget from the Contacts app. This widget displays all my favorite contacts in one convenient place, making it easy to access my inner circle without opening the app itself.

5

Google Chrome Shortcuts

While the Google Search widget that comes pre-installed on all Android phones is useful for quick searches, I replaced it with the Chrome Shortcuts widget.

While the Google search widget is effective for queries, one aspect I don’t like is that when I click on a website link from Google search, it opens in the app’s built-in browser. I prefer the flexibility and capabilities of the full Google Chrome browser, and the Chrome Shortcuts Widget gives me that.

Using the Google search option in the Chrome widget, I can search directly in the browser.

The widget also offers the option open an incognito window when I want to browse more privately. Plus, if I want to have some fun, the Chrome widget even lets me play the classic game Dino.​​​​​

6

ChatGPT

In cases where a simple Google search is not enough, I rely on ChatGPT widget for quick answers, detailed explanations and creative ideas. I can use the standard text option to ask everything I need, or if I’m feeling more spontaneous, I choose the voice option to get answers hands-free.

There’s also a Photo option that I sometimes use when I need to clarify an image or discuss visual details.

7

Digital Wellbeing

As someone who is often fixated on my phone, I try track my screen time. Having Google’s digital wellbeing widget on my secondary home screen allows me to track this without constantly having to open the app.

But what I like most about it is that it also displays my top three most used apps, as well as the amount of time spent on each one. This is very helpful because it helps me think about where my attention is going throughout the day.

8

Google Maps. Traffic jams nearby.

Although Google Maps suggests the best routes to destinations based on traffic, I often skip them when looking for familiar routes when heading to the office or grocery store. Instead, I rely on the Google Maps Nearby Traffic widget to provide me with real-time traffic information in the area.

At a glance, I can see whether the freeway is clear or there is a traffic jam ahead, allowing me to decide whether to leave a little earlier, take an alternative route, or refrain from traveling.

9

Caring for your device

TO to keep my Samsung Galaxy phone running smoothlyI use the Device Care widget to see how much memory my apps are using. This is especially useful when my phone is slow or apps start to glitch. The widget also has an optimization button that allows me to free up memory with one click.​​​​​​​

10

Regimes and procedures

I rely on Samsung Modes and Routines for several tasks. For example, I set up a routine for going outside that automatically turns off Wi-Fi, turns on location services, and adjusts my phone volume for use outside the home.

I also created a focus program that puts my phone on Do Not Disturb mode, turns up the volume, and plays my favorite playlist, creating the perfect environment for focusing.

With the Routines & Routines widget on the home screen, I can activate and end these routines with one tap, making it even more convenient to switch settings to suit my needs.

Having these widgets on my home screen takes my Android experience to a whole new level. What I love most about my Samsung Galaxy phone is the ability to group widgets, which saves me the hassle of switching between different home screens.

Having everything I need at my fingertips makes my phone more efficient, organized, and perfectly tailored to my daily life.