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Writer's pictureJoshua Gibbs

How to Set Up and Use Customizable Widgets on macOS Sonoma

MacOS Sonoma brings a notable feature to your Mac computer - interactive desktop widgets.


While widgets have long been part of the Notification Center on older macOS versions, with Sonoma, you can place them directly on your desktop. Here's a guide on how to set up and utilize these customizable widgets on your Mac.


Notification Center Widgets


If you already have widgets in your Notification Center that you'd like to move to your desktop, you're in luck. macOS Sonoma allows you to seamlessly transfer them between these two locations, giving you the flexibility to arrange them as you prefer.


Accessing the Widget Gallery


To make widget setup effortless, Apple has introduced a widget gallery, reminiscent of the one found on iOS. Here's how to access it:

  1. Right-click (or ctrl-click) on an empty area of your desktop.

  2. Choose the "Edit Widgets" option from the context menu.

The widget gallery will open, displaying available widgets from your installed Mac apps and, if applicable, widgets from your iPhone.



The gallery presents all widgets in its main window, and the left sidebar enables you to scroll through the list of apps with compatible widgets.


If your iPhone's widgets aren't visible, ensure that your iPhone runs iOS 17 or later, is signed in with the same Apple ID as your Mac, and is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.


For apps available on both macOS and iOS, you'll find "On This Mac" and "From iPhone" tabs on the upper right, allowing you to switch between views.


Simply tap on a widget to place it on your desktop, or drag it around until you discover the perfect spot.


Customizing Widgets


Once a widget is on your desktop, you can further customize it:

  1. Right-click (or ctrl-click) on the widget to access its available options.

  2. Adjust the widget's size by choosing from the provided size options.

  3. If applicable, select "Edit [widget name]" to modify specific settings.

  4. You'll also have the option to "Remove Widget."

Many native macOS widgets are interactive, allowing you to change settings or perform tasks without opening the corresponding app.


For example, you can mark off to-do list items in Reminders or control your smart lights directly from the widget.


Please note that iPhone widgets displayed on your Mac are not interactive and will prompt you to "open [app] on your iPhone to continue" if clicked.

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