A widget is a small panel from an app that sits on your home screen, lock screen or desktop and shows information or controls without opening the full app. Common examples include the weather, a calendar, the clock, a to do list, music controls and battery level. Widgets are for quick glances and fast actions, so you see what you need at a glance.
Why this happens
Widgets exist so you do not have to open an app just to check one thing. Instead of tapping into the weather app, a widget shows the forecast right on your screen and updates on its own.
There are two broad types. Information widgets display live details such as headlines, reminders or step counts. Control widgets let you do a quick action, like play music, toggle a smart light or start a timer.
Widgets come in different sizes, and many can be resized or stacked so you can fit several on one screen.
Is this normal?
Yes. Widgets are a standard feature on Android, iPhone, iPad, Windows and Mac. Using them is a normal way to personalise your device.
Does it cause any problems?
Widgets that update often, especially live ones showing news or location, can use a little extra battery and data. The effect is usually small, but many active widgets add up on an older device.
How to fix or check it
- On Android, touch and hold an empty part of the home screen, tap Widgets, then drag the one you want into place.
- On iPhone, touch and hold the home screen until the icons jiggle, tap the plus button at the top, choose a widget and add it.
- On the iPhone lock screen, touch and hold the lock screen, tap Customise, then add widgets under the clock.
- On Windows 11, open the Widgets board from the taskbar or by pressing Windows and W, then add or remove widgets.
- On Mac, open Notification Centre, or right click the desktop, to edit widgets.
- To remove a widget, touch and hold it, then choose remove, and to save battery keep only the ones you use.
Frequently asked questions
Do widgets drain battery?
Some do a little, mainly ones that refresh often or use location. Most use very little power. If battery matters, keep fewer live widgets on your screens.
What is the difference between a widget and an app?
An app is the full program you open. A widget is a small window into that app, showing key info or controls on your screen without opening it.
Why is my widget not updating?
Check the app has background refresh and data allowed, and that you are online. Removing and re adding the widget, or restarting the device, often fixes a stuck widget.