Introducing New Tab Widgets: A Fully Customizable Productivity Dashboard for Your Browser
Are you looking to transform your browser’s new tab into a powerful, personalized productivity hub? I’m excited to share a project I’ve spent the past four years developing—a versatile Chrome extension that brings a range of customizable widgets and features right to your new tab page.
Originally conceived as a simple tool to control Philips Hue lighting from a new tab, this extension has grown into a comprehensive dashboard tailored to enhance your daily workflow. Whether you want quick access to information, quick-launch apps, or a personalized workspace, New Tab Widgets can be tailored to fit your needs.
Key Features and Functionalities:
Customizable Iframe Widgets
Embed any webpage or element on your new tab page by targeting a specific area using CSS selectors. For example, you can display GitHub issues, finance tickers, or other dynamic content seamlessly integrated into your dashboard.
Essential Widgets
Include weather forecasts, world clocks, bookmarks, grouped links, sticky notes, and more—all accessible from your new tab for easy reference.
Smart Home Integration
Control your Philips Hue lighting directly from your dashboard. Manage scenes, toggle individual lights on or off, adjust colors, and switch scenes effortlessly with context menus—no need to open separate apps.
Quick Launch Apps
Launch your favorite Steam games or applications instantly from your new tab, saving valuable time during your day.
Search Utilities
Use a multi-engine search widget that supports popular search engines, complete with local search history to streamline your queries.
Calendar Sync
Integrate your Google Calendar for quick access to upcoming appointments and events directly on your dashboard.
Dynamic, Configurable Layout
Widgets are JSON-configurable, allowing full customization of content and appearance. Adjust styles with custom CSS and personalize the layout to suit your preferences.
User-Friendly Experience
Optionally display a welcome screen when opening a new tab to welcome or guide users.
Where to Find It
The extension, named “New Tab Widgets,” is available for Chromium-based browsers via the Chrome Web Store. You can explore its features and install it through the following link:
For more details, demonstrations, and updates, visit the official website:
Your feedback and suggestions are highly appreciated as this project was initially built for my personal use. I hope it can also become a
