My Android home screen is my command center. It’s where I quickly access the information and controls I need most with a curated selection of widgets. From simple ones like clock and weather to note-taking and screen time tracking, here are 10 widgets that are indispensable for my daily routine.

1Clock and Weather

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

The weather feature is equally invaluable, especially for someone like me who lives in a city where the weather can change on a whim. Whether I need to grab an umbrella, layer up, or apply sunscreen, the answer is right there on my home screen, helping me avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Screenshot by Pankil Shah – No attribution required

I’ll admit it—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 keeps track of my Galaxy Buds2 and Galaxy Watch. This way, I always know when to pop my earbuds back into their case or give my watch a quick charge before heading out.

3Samsung Notes

When it comes to jotting down quick thoughts, drafting out a to-do list, or sketching out ideas,Samsung Notes is my go-to app. I’ve gone all-in by adding two widgets from the app to my secondary home screen.

The first widget is a shortcut for creating a new note. This lets me quickly write, record, or draw with just one tap. Then there’s the “Notes list” widget, which displays my important notes directly on the home screen. It’s like having a digital bulletin board where I can quickly view my latest to-do lists, meeting notes, or reminders.

If you prefer using Google Keep for note-taking, it also offers similar widget options on Android.

4Direct Dial and Favorite Contacts

Remember speed dial? Google Contacts' Direct Dial widget is the modern, streamlined version of that essential feature. I’ve added a Direct Dial widget to my home screen that lets me call my wife with just a single tap.

I’ve also added the “Favorites” widget from the Contacts app. This widget displays all my starred contacts in one convenient spot, making it easy to access my inner circle without opening the app itself.

5Google Chrome Shortcuts

Although the Google Search widget—which comes pre-installed on all Android phones—is useful for quick searches, I’ve replaced it with Chrome’s shortcuts widget.

While the Google search widget is efficient for queries, one aspect I dislike is that when I tap on a website link from a Google search, it opens in an in-app browser. I much prefer the flexibility and features of the full Google Chrome browser, and Chrome’s shortcuts widget gives me that.

By using the Google search option within the Chrome widget, I can perform searches directly within the browser.

The widget also offers an option toopen an incognito windowwhen I want to browse more privately. Plus, if I’m in the mood for a fun distraction, the Chrome widget even lets meplay the classic Dino game.​​​​​

For those times when a simple Google search isn’t enough, I rely onChatGPT’s widgetfor quick answers, detailed explanations, and creative ideas. I can use the standard text option to ask anything I need, or if I’m feeling more spontaneous, I opt for the voice option to get responses hands-free.

There’s also the photo option, which I use occasionally when I need clarification on an image or want to discuss visual details.

7Digital Wellbeing

As someone who often finds myself glued to my phone, I try totrack my screen time. Having Google’s Digital Wellbeing widget on my secondary home screen allows me to monitor this without constantly opening an app.

What I love most about it, though, is that it also displays my top three most used apps, along with the amount of time spent on each. This is quite handy as it helps me reflect on where my attention goes throughout the day.

8Google Maps Nearby Traffic

Although Google Maps offers the best routes to destinations based on traffic, I often skip it for familiar routes when heading to the office or the grocery store. Instead, I rely on the Google Maps Nearby Traffic widget, which gives me real-time traffic updates for the surrounding area.

With just a glance, I can see whether the freeway is clear or if there’s a traffic jam ahead, allowing me to decide whether to leave a little earlier, take an alternate route, or hold off on my trip.

9Device Care

Tokeep my Samsung Galaxy phone running smoothly, I use the Device Care widget to see how much memory my apps consume. This is especially helpful when my phone feels slow, or apps start acting up. The widget also features an optimization button, which lets me free up memory with a single tap.​​​​​​​

Most Android phones with custom skins offer widgets similar to One UI’s Device Care. However, if your phone lacks this feature, you can download theG-CPU app, which provides similar functionality.

10Modes and Routines

I rely onSamsung’s Modes and Routinesfor several tasks. For example, I’ve set up a routine for heading out that automatically turns off Wi-Fi, enables location services, and adjusts my phone’s volume for outdoor use.

Additionally, I’ve created a routine for focus that switches my phone to Do Not Disturb, increases the volume, and plays my favorite playlist—creating the ideal environment for concentration.

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

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

With everything I need just a tap away, my phone feels more efficient, organized, and perfectly tailored to my daily routines.