I created a 'widget-only' setup that helped me cut my screen time in half

Smartphone overuse is a problem for people in 2026. So much so that many new Android features are geared toward improving the digital wellbeing of its users, particularly on Google devices, like my Pixel 10 Pro.

It's worth noting, however, that one of the most effective ways to reduce screen time is with a feature available to Android users since the operating system's inception in 2008: widgets.

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The widget-only home screen

The best way to reduce screen time

If you want to ditch the app life and reduce your screen time, widgets can be an absolute game-changer, particularly if you're willing to go all in.

First, you'll need to decide which of your many apps are the most necessary to be accessible without actually opening the app. Calendars, email platforms, and messaging apps are particularly good for this because you can check the basics without extending your screen time too much.

In my case, Google Calendar, Gmail, and WhatsApp are my go-tos, and they provide simple scroll functionality to check out specific events and incoming messages easily, although I have to open the app to message back or edit start times.

On top of that, I added the ESPN scoreboard banner across the top, ensuring I wouldn't lose minutes or even hours perusing the latest news, acquisitions, and standings when all I initially wanted was to check the score of the Cubs game.

I also added the EverythingWeather app widget, not because I lose a lot of time checking the weather in other cities, but because it adds a bit of aesthetic flair to the home display, which is now entirely covered in widgets.

How to set up a widget-only home screen

A few simple steps to reduce your screen time

Considering widgets have been available on Android, it's safe to assume that most users know how to add them to their home screen.

Still, it never hurts to get a little walkthrough in case you haven't been taking advantage of these handy elements for the last 18 years.

To start, long press anywhere on your home screen that isn't covered by an app icon or another widget. Then, click Widgets, which will bring you to the interface where you'll select your options.

The Widgets interface has two tabs. The Browse section is where every app you downloaded on your phone displays the different widgets that are available. They're conveniently in alphabetical order, so you should be able to track down what you're looking for with ease.

The other tab is the Featured section. This is a good place to go if you need a bit of inspiration for your widget-only display. It provides specific recommendations based on your usage, so you can find the right widget for your home screen. You can also search for widgets by name from this page, which might be quicker.

Most importantly, though, you'll need to find widgets that fit your home screen. The dimensions are listed in the Widgets interface, but many are adjustable, so don't take that as gospel. You can also change your layout to get more space in the Wallpaper & style section of the settings menu.

Other ways to reduce screen time

You've got a lot of options here

If you're really serious about reducing screen time, the widget-only home screen can help, but it's not the only way to cut back on all that blue light.

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There are several dedicated Digital Wellbeing features and modes in Android 16 that are designed to reduce usage and improve your online experience at the same time.

• Focus mode. A feature that allows you to select specific distraction apps that will be grayed out and their notifications disabled. You'll also get a reminder that you're in Focus mode if you try to open the app.
• Bedtime mode. Like Focus mode, Bedtime mode is activated on a particular schedule and will dim your wallpaper and silence your device to promote better sleep.
• App timers. You can set specific timers for apps, so that you don't overuse them during a particular day.
• Reminders. Android allows you to receive specific reminders to look up when walking around or watch your screen time when you are using your device for too long.

Simply put, reducing smartphone overuse with features on your smartphone may seem counterintuitive, but for many, it's the only way to do it.

Fix smartphone overuse

Take your digital wellbeing seriously

Study after study has found that using your phone too much is rarely a good thing. Higher depression rates are no joke, and if something as simple as putting your phone down can change that, it's worth a try.

Even better, these devices are specifically built with more and more features designed to keep your relationship with your device as healthy as possible. We implore you to use them.