How to add widgets to an Android home screen

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Widgets show information such as weather, calendar entries or music controls on the home screen, so you do not have to open the app.

Menu names below are from Google Pixel phones on a recent Android version. Samsung, Xiaomi and other brands rename some of them, so the Samsung name is given where it differs. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the screen, not screenshots.

Step by step

1. Touch and hold an empty area of the home screen

   A menu appears.

   Done

2. Tap Widgets

   A list of apps that offer widgets opens.

   Done

3. Find the app and its widget

   Tap an app to see its widgets, or use the search field.

   Done

4. Touch and hold the widget and drag it into place

   The home screen appears behind it. Let go where you want it.

   Done

5. Resize it

   Touch and hold the widget and let go. Drag the dots on its edges to make it wider or taller.

   Done

Good to know

To remove a widget, touch and hold it and drag it to Remove at the top of the screen.

The quick way: touch and hold an app icon and tap Widgets to see only that app's widgets.

Many widgets have settings. Touch and hold the widget and tap the pencil or Settings icon.

Widgets that refresh often, such as live weather, use a little battery.

In short: Hold the home screen, Widgets, hold a widget and drag it into place.