4 Ways to Fix Widgets Not Updating on Android

Quick Tips

• Basic fixes like checking internet connectivity or updating the app or device may save you further troubleshooting.
• You can also try restarting your phone or updating it to the latest OS version.
• As a final option, you may clear the app cache and data, but this may lead to a loss of configuration and certain settings.

Fix 1: Re-Add the Widget

Removing and re-adding the widget on Android has seemed to work well while fixing widget-related issues.

Step 1: Hold the widget and drag it to the Remove option at the top of the screen.

Step 2: Tap and hold anywhere on your home screen, then select Widgets from the menu that pops up. Now, add your widget again to see if it is working properly.

Fix 2: Turn off Power Saver

Android’s battery saver often reduces an app’s ability to work in the background. The same holds for app widgets. Thus, you can try turning it off.

Bring down the quick settings panel. Click on the Battery Saver icon to toggle it off.

Fix 3: Allow the App to Run in the Background

Aside from the system battery saver, you also need to ensure the app associated with the widget isn’t prohibited from working in the background.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your phone. Go to Apps and Notifications, then tap the app associated with the widget.

Step 2: On the app info page, expand the Advanced menu and go to Battery.

Step 3: Under Manage Battery Usage, tap on the Background restriction option followed by Remove to allow the app to work in the background.

Step 4: Restart the app and re-add the app widget, then verify it fixes the problem.

Fix 4: Clear App Cache and Data

Apps on our phones often collect cache data as we continue to use them. While this cache data helps the app and widget load things faster, it can get corrupted over time. Here’s how to clear it.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your phone. Go to Apps and Notifications, then tap the app associated with the widget.

Step 2: Go to Storage and Cache and tap on the Clear cache button to remove cache data. The app should now purge any cache data and load things from scratch.

Step 3: Lastly, if the issue persists, repeat the above steps to clear app data instead.