How to Turn Your Mac Desktop into a Productive Workspace with Widgets in macOS Sonoma

macOS Sonoma introduced a simple but meaningful change to the Mac desktop: widgets can now live directly on the desktop instead of being limited to the Notification Center.

This makes the desktop more than a background image. It becomes a place where useful information is always visible.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to use desktop widgets in macOS Sonoma, how to keep your desktop clean, and how to extend the same experience into your browser.

What desktop widgets are used for

Desktop widgets are small, lightweight components that show important information at a glance. The most commonly used widgets include:

Weather
Calendar events
Reminders
Battery status
World clocks
Notes

In macOS Sonoma, widgets automatically fade when you open an app. This keeps them visible when you need them and unobtrusive when you are working.

How to add widgets to your Mac desktop

Adding widgets does not require any extra software.

Right-click anywhere on the desktop
Click Edit Widgets
Browse or search for a widget
Drag it onto the desktop

Widgets can be resized and moved freely, so you can adjust them to your screen size and layout.

Keeping your desktop easy to read

One of the most common issues with desktop widgets is poor readability. This usually happens when widgets are placed on top of a busy wallpaper.

To avoid this:

use a background with soft colors
avoid strong contrast behind text
leave some empty space around widgets

A clean background makes widgets easier to read and reduces visual fatigue.

Why animated wallpapers work well with widgets

When done properly, animated wallpapers add depth without becoming distracting. Slow motion and subtle transitions work best, especially on large screens.

Platforms like Wallsflow focus on this balance, offering animated wallpapers that pair well with desktop widgets and modern macOS layouts.

Extending the same experience into your browser

Many people spend more time in their browser than on the desktop itself. A cluttered New Tab page can break focus just as easily as a messy desktop.

Wallsflow New Tab is a browser extension for Chromium-based browsers that replaces the default New Tab page with a clean, distraction-free layout using animated wallpapers.

The extension is available from:

It works with both Chrome, Brave and Edge.

A simple macOS Sonoma setup that works well

You do not need many widgets for an effective setup.

A good starting point:

2–4 essential widgets such as Calendar, Weather, and Reminders
a subtle animated wallpaper
enough empty space to keep the desktop readable

In the browser, using a clean New Tab page without feeds or ads helps maintain the same level of focus.

Final thoughts

macOS Sonoma makes it easier to build a desktop that is useful without being overwhelming. Desktop widgets provide quick access to important information, while the right background and browser setup help keep distractions low.

With a few thoughtful choices, your Mac desktop can support your workflow instead of getting in the way.