How to Manage Widgets on Android

Widgets are like mini-apps that you can place on your screen instead of having the small shortcut icon. Some of the most useful ones are weather, email and calendar shortcuts. Although each Android device comes pre-loaded with some widgets, there are a lot of widgets available from the Google Play Store.

I. Using Pre-Installed Widgets

1. Each widget is a different size, but you will have to make sure there is room on your screen for the widget, otherwise it won’t be placed.

2. Once you have determined you have the right amount of space, hold your finger on the screen until you see a pop up menu, and select Widget. Depending on what device you are using, you may have to select ‘Add’ first and then ‘Widgets.’

3. If you want to delete the widget just hold your finger down on it and drag it over the trash can that will appear either at the top or bottom of the screen.

4. If you wish to move a widget around hold your finger down until you are able to move it, and move it left or right to put it on a different screen.

5. Some apps that you download from the Google Play store will come with a widget, so it’s helpful to scroll through your widgets after adding an app.

II. Getting New Widgets

1. Open up the Google Play Store and search for widget.

2. A list will pop up with a multitude of apps ranging from weather, to battery life, to lock screen widgets; the best part is most of them are free.

3. After you install the widget you will follow the same steps as part I to add them to your screen.