How to Use iOS 18’s Advanced Widgets for Productivity

iOS 18 introduces a new level of functionality with its advanced widgets, transforming how users interact with their devices. These widgets are more dynamic, customisable, and interactive, making them an essential tool for boosting productivity. This guide explores how to set up, customise, and maximise the use of iOS 18’s advanced widgets to streamline your daily tasks.

Table of Contents

1. What Are Advanced Widgets in iOS 18?
2. How to Add Widgets to Your Home Screen
3. Customising Widgets for Maximum Efficiency
4. Interactive Widgets: A Game-Changer
5. Best Productivity Widgets to Try

1. What Are Advanced Widgets in iOS 18?

Advanced widgets in iOS 18 go beyond basic display functions. They now support interactivity, allowing you to take actions directly from the widget itself, such as marking tasks as complete, replying to messages, or controlling smart devices. Additionally, they are more customisable, offering tailored information at a glance.

2. How to Add Widgets to Your Home Screen

Adding widgets to your home screen is simple:

1. Long press on an empty area of your home screen until the icons jiggle.
2. Tap the + icon in the top-left corner.
3. Scroll through the widget options or use the search bar to find a specific widget.
4. Select the desired widget, choose a size, and tap Add Widget.
5. Drag and drop the widget to your preferred location, then tap Done.

3. Customising Widgets for Maximum Efficiency

To get the most out of your widgets, customise them to suit your workflow:

• Edit Content: Long press the widget, tap Edit Widget, and select the data or app features you want it to display.
• Smart Stacks: Combine multiple widgets into a Smart Stack. iOS 18’s intelligence feature automatically rotates widgets based on your usage patterns, keeping the most relevant one at the forefront.
• Home Screen Layout: Arrange widgets strategically to prioritise tasks, schedules, or reminders.

4. Interactive Widgets: A Game-Changer

One of iOS 18’s standout features is interactive widgets, which allow you to:

• Mark tasks as complete in the Reminders widget.
• Start timers or control music without opening apps.
• Update calendar events or reply to messages directly from the widget.

These features reduce the need to switch between apps, saving time and increasing focus.

5. Best Productivity Widgets to Try

• Reminders Widget: Keep track of to-dos and mark them complete without entering the app.
• Calendar Widget: View and manage your daily schedule at a glance.
• Notes Widget: Quickly jot down ideas or access frequently used notes.
• Focus Mode Widget: Toggle between custom focus modes for work, study, or relaxation.
• Shortcuts Widget: Launch your most-used shortcuts for tasks like sending emails or navigating to a location.

By integrating advanced widgets into your daily routine, iOS 18 can help you stay organised, save time, and maintain focus. Whether you’re managing tasks, keeping track of meetings, or simply aiming to declutter your workflow, these widgets are a game-changer for productivity.