With the release of macOS Sonoma, Apple has made significant changes to the way widgets function on Mac. Previously confined to the hidden space of the Notifications Center panel, widgets now have a prominent place on the desktop and are even interactive.
One of the noticeable changes is the ability to drag widgets from the Notifications Center onto the desktop. The first widget can be placed anywhere on the desktop, and subsequent widgets can easily snap into position next to each other, thanks to Apple’s placement guidance feature.
Alternatively, users can right-click on an empty space on the desktop and select the “Edit Widgets…” option from the menu. This brings up a widget gallery that includes widgets from iPhones as well, thanks to a new Continuity feature. Users can choose any available iOS widget and drag it onto the desktop, even if they don’t have the corresponding Mac app.
While third-party developers are yet to incorporate interactivity into their Mac widgets, Apple’s own widgets offer some basic interactions. For example, in the Home app widget, users can control specific accessories by clicking on individual buttons to turn them on and off.
Customization options for widgets are conveniently accessible by right-clicking on them. Widgets come in Small, Medium, and Large sizes, with an option to remove them if desired.
One interesting visual change is that when not in use, widgets fade into the background, matching the color of the wallpaper. This allows users to focus on the active app or window without distractions. Additionally, users can choose between full-color or monochrome widget styles in the System Settings.
The evolution of widgets in macOS Sonoma marks a shift towards an open workspace where users are encouraged to actively engage with widgets. It remains to be seen how users will embrace these changes and whether they will be more inclined to use widgets in their new form.
What are your thoughts on Apple’s new take on Mac widgets in macOS Sonoma? Are you likely to use them more now that they are integrated into the desktop environment? Let us know in the comments.