10 Hidden iPad Widgets You Need to Know

The world of iPad widgets is more extensive than you might think. With iPadOS 27, Apple introduced extra-large widgets to Today View, giving users more room to explore and utilize the bigger screen. Among the many useful widgets available, some stand out for their unique functionalities, such as Parcel for tracking deliveries and Home for controlling smart home devices.

One of the most useful widgets for online shoppers is the Parcel widget, which supports up to 300 delivery services, including major carriers like UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL, and Amazon Logistics. The Parcel app offers a free version that can track three deliveries at a time, although it lacks push notifications. For more features, users can opt for a Premium subscription costing $6.99/year, which removes limits on tracked deliveries and adds push notifications.

The Home widget, a built-in Apple feature, allows for one-tap control of smart home devices, enabling tasks like switching lights on/off and locking/unlocking garage doors without opening the app. This convenience makes it a must-have for those invested in smart home technology.

To add a widget to an iPad Home Screen, users simply need to touch and hold an empty spot, tap Edit, and then hit Add Widget. Some apps also allow their icon to be turned into a widget by touching and holding the icon and picking a widget size from the menu, although not all apps support this feature.

## Why it Matters The ability to customize an iPad with widgets can significantly enhance the user experience, providing quick access to important information and controls. For those who frequently receive deliveries, the Parcel widget can be a game-changer, offering a convenient way to track packages without constantly checking the app. Similarly, the Home widget simplifies smart home management, making it easier to control devices with just a tap.

The versatility of iPad widgets, combined with the ease of adding them to the Home Screen, means that users can tailor their iPad to fit their specific needs and preferences. Whether it's tracking deliveries, controlling smart home devices, or accessing other types of information, the right widgets can make a significant difference in how efficiently and enjoyably you use your iPad.

## What's Next As iPadOS continues to evolve, it's likely that even more innovative and useful widgets will become available. For now, exploring the existing options, such as Parcel and Home, can help users unlock the full potential of their iPad. With the ability to manage deliveries across devices, thanks to Parcel's native Mac app and web access, and the seamless integration of smart home controls through the Home widget, the possibilities for customization and convenience are expanding.