How to Use New Widgets in iOS 17

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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iOS 17 introduces a great range of new widgets that provide a more dynamic and engaging experience for iPhone users. Widgets serve as handy shortcuts to app information, providing such data at a glance without having to open the app. With iOS 17, Apple has enriched the widget experience by enabling more interactive and visually engaging options. This document aims to guide you step-by-step through everything you need to know about using these new widgets to maximize your iOS experience.

Understanding widgets in iOS 17

Widgets in iOS 17 are app components that allow you to view important information right from your home screen. They range from clock displays and weather forecasts to stock updates and reminders. The latest version includes enhancements, including new shapes, styles, and functionalities that turn them into more interactive tools.

Add widgets to your home screen

The process of adding widgets to your home screen in iOS 17 is very easy. You can do it like this:

1. Long press: Long press on an empty part of your home screen until the icons start to shake. This indicates that you are in editing mode for your home screen.
2. Access the widget gallery: Tap the '+' button in the upper left corner. This action brings up the widget gallery where all available widgets are displayed.
3. Search or browse: You can search for a specific widget using the search bar or browse through the categories to find the widget you want. In iOS 17, Apple has effectively categorized widgets from different apps, so navigation is simple.
4. Select a widget: Click the widget you want to add. You'll see all the available sizes and styles. Swipe left or right to preview all the options.
5. Add the widget: Once you decide on the size and style, tap the "Add Widget" button. This action places the widget directly on your home screen.
6. Adjust placement: Drag the widget to the location you want on your home screen. You can move it around like any app icon.
7. Exit Edit mode: Press the Home button (or swipe up from the bottom on an iPhone without a Home button) to exit Edit mode and save your changes.

This method allows you to create a home screen full of valuable information, available right at your fingertips.

How to interact with widgets

The interactive nature of iOS 17 widgets represents a big upgrade over previous versions. Widgets are no longer static; they allow for interactions similar to app functionality. Here are some examples of how you can interact with these advanced widgets:

• Glance at information: For example, the News widget lets you glance at headlines directly from the home screen.
• Expand details: Tap a calendar event to see more details, such as the event location, invitees, and notes.
• Quick Actions: Use the workout widget to start a session directly without opening the app.
• Toggle settings: Some widgets, such as smart home controllers, allow you to toggle lights or adjust thermostats.
• View next item: The music widget enables you to skip to the next song or pause/resume playback.

These interactive capabilities are useful, reducing the need to enter an app to perform basic functionalities.

Customizing the widgets

By customizing the look and behavior of your widgets, you can personalize your iPhone experience to suit your preferences and lifestyle. Here's how you can make these changes:

Size and shape options

iOS 17 has expanded the size and shape offerings for widgets. Choose the option that best suits your needs and screen organization:

• Small: This size is suitable for widgets that provide quick check information like battery level or step count.
• Medium: Medium-sized widgets provide more information, such as a compact calendar or a one-day weather forecast.
• Large: Select this size for a rich data display, such as week-long weather updates or multi-day news summaries.

To resize an existing widget:

1. Enter edit mode by long pressing the widget.
2. Select the "Edit Widget" option.
3. Select the new size from the available options.

'Smart Stack' feature

The 'Smart Stack' feature allows you to stack multiple widgets on top of each other. iOS 17 intelligently rotates the widget display based on your usage patterns, time, and location. To create a Smart Stack:

1. Enter edit mode on your home screen.
2. Drag one widget on top of another.
3. Continue stacking widgets as desired.
4. Once you're done, exit edit mode to see your Smart Stack in action.

When you swipe up on the Smart Stack, you'll see a sequence of different widgets, effectively maximizing your screen area.

Color themes and styles

Some widgets offer customization options that let you change their appearance, including their color and style. This varies from widget to widget and depends mainly on the capability of the app:

1. Long press on a widget to enter edit mode.
2. Select “Edit Widget.” If an app supports visual customization, you’ll see options to change the color or style here.
3. Choose the theme and style you want to match your home screen tone.

These aesthetic options enable you to create an attractive home screen that suits your preferences.

Managing widgets for privacy and security

While widgets make it easier to access information, they also pose privacy concerns because sensitive data can appear on your screen. Here are some guidelines for managing privacy:

• Choose widgets wisely: Only add widgets from trusted applications.
• Use complications sparingly: Avoid widgets that display sensitive information like financial data or private messages without PIN/FaceID protection.
• Adjust content visibility: Some apps let you customize what appears on the widget. Adjust these settings to suit your privacy needs.

Siri suggestions in the widget

Siri uses on-device intelligence to provide automated actions through the Suggestions widget. This algorithm takes into account your behavior, app usage patterns, time of day, and location. Siri-suggested widgets bring automation and personalization right to your fingertips. To use them:

1. Go to the Widget Gallery and search for “Siri Suggestions.”
2. Add the widget to your home screen.
3. Siri Suggestions will display relevant actions, like calling a regular contact or ordering a morning coffee at the right time.

Conclusion

iOS 17 has expanded the functionality and customization of widgets to significantly improve your iPhone experience. Interactivity, more personalized options, and strategic enhancements make widgets engaging tools for syncing real-time information. By integrating these smart, user-friendly elements into your day, you maximize both the usability and aesthetics of your device. Whether for productivity, convenience, or style, the latest widgets offer plenty of opportunities to transform the way you use your phone every day.

Incorporating these new features into your routine can save time and effort, making Apple's iOS 17 an essential update for an optimized mobile experience.

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