How to add Interactive widgets to macOS Sonoma and use them

In the latest macOS Sonoma update, Apple has introduced a significant change to the way widgets function. No longer confined to the Notification Center, widgets are now interactive and reside directly on your desktop. This article delves into the world of interactive widgets in macOS Sonoma, guiding you through the process of adding and using them effectively.

Introducing Interactive Widgets in macOS Sonoma:

The Evolution of Widgets in macOS

1. The transition of widgets from the Notifications Center to the desktop in macOS Sonoma has transformed their usability.
2. Widgets are now easily accessible and provide an enhanced user experience.

Adding Widgets to Your Desktop

Dragging Widgets onto the Desktop

1. Widgets can be dragged out from the Notifications Center and placed directly on your desktop.
2. Apple provides placement guidance for subsequent widgets, allowing you to snap them into position in relation to others.

Exploring the Widget Gallery:

1. Right-clicking on an empty space on the desktop reveals the “Edit Widgets…” option, which opens the widget gallery.
2. The widget gallery now includes widgets from your iPhone, expanding the available options.
3. Even if you don’t have the corresponding Mac app, you can still use iOS widgets on your desktop.

Widget Interactivity and Customization

Interactions with Apple’s Own Widgets

1. Apple’s widgets, such as the Home app widget, offer interactive features.
2. You can control specific accessories by clicking individual buttons within the widget.
3. Right clicking on a widget provides access to customization options and the ability to remove widgets.

Visual Integration and Customization

1. Widgets seamlessly integrate with your desktop by blending into the background with the color of your wallpaper.
2. The System Settings in macOS Sonoma allow you to switch between full-color and Monochrome widget styles.

Utilizing iPhone Widgets on Your Mac

Incorporating iPhone Widgets

1. With the combination of macOS Sonoma and iOS 17, you can add iPhone-only widgets to your Mac.
2. The widget picker showcases all available widgets from your iPhone, alongside Mac widgets.
3. Simply drag the desired widget from the picker and place it anywhere on your desktop.

Limitations and Future Expectations:

1. Currently, some iPhone widgets may have limited functionality on the Mac due to development constraints.
2. Developers are actively working to refine their apps and widgets, ensuring improved functionality in the future.

Choosing Widgets Wisely

1. Consider the suitability of each widget for your Mac setup and workflow.
2. Some widgets may be more practical on a portable iPhone compared to a desktop Mac.
3. Select widgets that align with your specific needs and enhance your productivity.

The introduction of interactive widgets in macOS Sonoma has revolutionized the widget experience on Macs. By allowing widgets to live on the desktop and providing interactivity, Apple encourages users to integrate them into their daily tasks. Although limitations exist, the ability to add iPhone widgets to a Mac opens up new possibilities for customization and productivity. As macOS Sonoma continues to evolve, we eagerly await the advancements that third-party developers will bring to the world of Mac widgets.