Widgets have long been a staple of the Android ecosystem, serving as essential tools for managing everything from smart home devices to personal agendas. Among the myriad features available, widget stacks stand out as a particularly appealing option, first introduced by Samsung in its One UI 5 update in 2022. However, for users of Google’s Pixel devices, the absence of this feature has been a notable drawback. Fortunately, a creative workaround has emerged, allowing Pixel users to enjoy similar functionality.
What are widget stacks?
Widget stacks allow users to combine multiple widgets into a single, scrollable unit on their home screens. On Samsung devices, this is achieved by long-pressing an existing widget and selecting the Create stack option. This action presents a selection of compatible widgets that can be layered, enabling a streamlined and organized home screen experience. The appeal of widget stacks lies in their ability to maintain a clean aesthetic while maximizing the amount of information displayed.
Expanded Smartspace meets my widget needs
For those navigating the limitations of the Pixel 10 Pro, the Smartspacer app offers a compelling alternative. This application enhances Google’s At a Glance widget, allowing for extensive customization. One of its standout features, Expanded Smartspace, enables users to tap on the At a Glance widget to access a curated list of selected widgets. While it may not replicate the exact functionality of Samsung’s widget stacks, it provides a close approximation that satisfies the need for organization and efficiency.
To utilize Expanded Smartspace, users must first download Shizuku and adjust some developer settings, a process that is straightforward and well-documented within the app. Once set up, users can customize their expanded mode, selecting options such as the inclusion of a search box and whether the feature can be accessed from the lock screen. This flexibility allows for a tailored experience, ensuring that users can summon their preferred widgets with a simple tap.
Smartspacer unlocks the potential of At a Glance
Beyond its expanded capabilities, Smartspacer enhances the At a Glance widget in various ways. Users can designate specific items to appear in the widget, determining their order based on personal preference. For instance, one might prioritize standard functionality while incorporating dynamic elements like event tickets from Google Wallet or real-time song detection through the Now Playing feature.
Additionally, Smartspacer introduces complications—persistent items that remain visible in the At a Glance widget when dynamic targets are inactive. This feature allows users to keep essential information readily accessible, such as sleep data from Samsung Health or the battery status of connected devices like Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.
From annoying to essential
Before the introduction of Smartspacer, the At a Glance widget often felt like an unwelcome presence on the home screen, a static bar of text lacking customization options. However, with Smartspacer, it has transformed into an indispensable tool that enhances the overall Pixel experience. As one user noted, Smartspacer has made the At a Glance widget an essential part of my Pixel experience.
This app has revitalized the functionality of the At a Glance widget, bringing back the convenience of widget stacks that many users have come to appreciate.
For those exploring alternatives to widget stacks, Smartspacer stands out as a noteworthy option. Its ability to enhance the At a Glance widget and provide a more organized home screen experience makes it a valuable addition for any Pixel user.
