How to Turn Your New Tab Page Into a Productivity Dashboard

A simple guide to getting started with New Tab Widgets, a customizable new tab extension for Chrome that turns your new tab into a productivity dashboard.

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New Tab Widgets dashboard with various productivity widgets
New Tab Widgets dashboard with various productivity widgets

Introduction

If you're the kind of person who opens dozens of new tabs a day (aren't we all?), your new tab page is prime real estate — and it's probably going to waste.

That’s where New Tab Widgets comes in.

Instead of a blank screen or search bar, this free browser extension turns every new tab into a productivity dashboard filled with widgets that help you stay focused, organized, and in control of your day.

Whether you're working, studying, or just want to feel a little more put together, here’s a simple guide to getting started.


✅ What Is New Tab Widgets?

New Tab Widgets is a customizable new tab extension for Chrome (and other Chromium browsers) that lets you add useful widgets like:

  • Sticky notes for quick reminders
  • Link shortcuts to your favorite sites
  • Weather updates right where you’ll see them
  • Spotify controls (yes, really)
  • Smart home widgets like Philips Hue lights
  • …and a lot more

You can fully personalize the layout, background, and even create multiple pages for different parts of your day (work, personal, chill).


🔧 How to Set It Up (Takes 2 Minutes)

Screenshot of a freshly installed New Tab Widgets extension showing a 'Get Started' guide, sticky note, digital clock, and links.
Screenshot of a freshly installed New Tab Widgets extension showing a 'Get Started' guide, sticky note, digital clock, and links.

1. Install the extension
Head over to the Chrome Web Store and click "Add to Chrome."

2. Open a new tab
When you open your first new tab, you'll see a few starter widgets already in place — like a “Get Started” guide, a sticky note, a digital clock widget and links. These are there to help you get familiar fast.

3. Click “Add Widget”
You’ll see a bunch of widgets to choose from. Start with a few basics:

  • Sticky Notes to jot things down
  • Link Launcher for quick site access
  • Weather so you know if you need an umbrella
  • Spotify if you like background music while you work

4. Move them around
Drag and drop widgets anywhere. Resize them. Make it yours.


💡 Tips for Maximum Productivity

Here’s how power users set things up:

  • Use multiple pages: One for Work (calendar, notes, Zoom links), one for Home (music, lighting, YouTube), one for Goals (habits, quotes, reminders).
  • Set a calming background: Choose from built-in wallpapers or upload your own. It really does help your mindset.
  • Pin important links: Keep email, project tools, or documents one click away — no more typing URLs.

🚀 Want More Features?

You don’t need Pro to enjoy New Tab Widgets, but it unlocks some pretty awesome upgrades:

  • Unlimited widgets and pages
  • Cloud sync across devices
  • Custom CSS and advanced layout tools
  • Premium widget features

It’s perfect for people who live in their browser (remote workers, creatives, students, ADHD minds — you name it).


🌟 Why People Love It

"Beautiful and modern design with a simple and intuitive user interface. Haven't had any glitches or crashes."
— Kirk, Chrome Web Store review

"Great addon for the way I use chrome with a lot of neat features, and most importantly excellent support (initially emailed the developer and later on received a lot of assistance through their discord)"
— Dennis Johansson, Chrome Web Store review

"Works flawlessly to control my hue lights straight from my computer. Excited to see what other features get added."
— Mark Dorkhom, Chrome Web Store review


👇 Ready to Try It?

Your productivity doesn’t need more apps. It just needs a better new tab.

Start free today:
🔗 Add New Tab Widgets to Chrome

You’ll be up and running in less than 2 minutes — and probably wondering why you didn’t do this sooner.