• After 15+ years, we've made a big change: Android Forums is now Early Bird Club. Learn more here.

Starting a widget that's not on my screen?

With only three screens to work with, I'm QUICKLY running out of room for my apps, folders and widgets. The dock is one thing that I really miss from my old iPhone.

Is there an easy way to start a widget if it has been installed, but NOT put onto the screen?

For example, the Google Search is handy, but takes up four spaces on my page. Is there any way I can make it easily accessible, but not living on my screen all the time? Same for my Calendar widget, etc.
 
With only three screens to work with, I'm QUICKLY running out of room for my apps, folders and widgets. The dock is one thing that I really miss from my old iPhone.

Is there an easy way to start a widget if it has been installed, but NOT put onto the screen?

For example, the Google Search is handy, but takes up four spaces on my page. Is there any way I can make it easily accessible, but not living on my screen all the time? Same for my Calendar widget, etc.

No, that's the nature of a widget, it's always on the screen. They don't launch like programs.
 
Upvote 0
Hey Calab - what phone do you have?

A lot of the phones with hardware keyboards also have a dedicated search key. If you press that you're taken directly to a search box which - for me - has replaced the need for a Search widget for the price "space" problem you're having. I have a G1 BTW.

I know that only frees up 3 spaces or so... but every little bit counts!
 
Upvote 0

BEST TECH IN 2023

We've been tracking upcoming products and ranking the best tech since 2007. Thanks for trusting our opinion: we get rewarded through affiliate links that earn us a commission and we invite you to learn more about us.

Smartphones