{
  "id": 17707884,
  "title": "10 iPad widgets you probably didn't realize existed",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/02/10-ipad-widgets-you-probably-didnt-realize-existed",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-02T00:15:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Engadget",
    "slug": "engadget",
    "url": "https://www.engadget.com/2299525/ipad-widgets-didnt-realize-existed/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Many iPad users overlook the full potential of widgets, but iPadOS 27 has expanded the options available on the Today View. Apple and third-party developers have crafted a variety of widgets that can enhance productivity and convenience. Widgets can be added by pressing and holding on an empty area of the Home Screen, tapping Edit, and selecting Add Widget. Once added, widgets can be resized to suit individual needs.\n\nOne widget that often goes unnoticed is Parcel. It provides a convenient overview of upcoming deliveries from various services like UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL and Amazon Logistics. Users can connect their Amazon account for automatic order tracking or scan a shipping label's barcode. While the free version tracks three deliveries and lacks push notifications, a Premium subscription for $6.99/year removes these restrictions.\n\nThe Home app's Light Control widget offers an alternative to launching the Home app for basic tasks. It allows users to control lights, garage doors, and other compatible smart accessories with simple widget actions. The widget's customization options enable users to prioritize frequently used accessories while keeping less-used ones out of sight.\n\nNot Boring Weather offers a unique 3D, video game-inspired design that adds character to the Home Screen. The widget provides detailed weather information including temperature, conditions, UV index, and wind, sourced from reputable weather services. It also displays severe weather alerts, ensuring users stay informed about potential hazards. The free version is ad-free, but real-time weather requires a $14.99/year subscription, which also adds extra data and new themes.\n\nFind My widget, powered by Apple's Find My network, displays the location of your Apple devices, AirTags, and third-party Find My items on the Home Screen. This feature is particularly useful for quickly locating misplaced items. Users can also enable Notify When Left Behind to receive alerts when a device is left in an unfamiliar location. Moreover, Find My widget is capable of tracking devices even when they are offline or powered off, thanks to the Find My network.\n\nEndel's widgets provide a quick and accessible way to engage with the app's AI-powered soundscapes. With a free edition consisting of four classic soundscapes, users can enjoy features like Focus, Sleep, Relax, and Move. The premium subscription unlocks additional content, including Colored Noise with nine color options, Dynamic Focus, artist collaborations, and Spatial Orbit for an immersive spatial audio experience. A subscription or one-time lifetime purchase is required to access the premium features.",
  "summary": "Widgets take advantage of your iPad's large screen, and some of the best ones are often overlooked.",
  "key_points": [
    "Parcel widget tracks deliveries from UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL, and Amazon Logistics",
    "Light Control widget lets users manage smart accessories without opening Home app",
    "Not Boring Weather offers 3D, video game-inspired weather updates with alerts"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Expanded widget options in iPadOS 27 transform the Home Screen from a simple app launcher into a centralized hub for managing deliveries, smart home devices, and real-time information.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}