Quick answer
A sample number shows how a design may look. A live number comes from a supported source and changes when the underlying data updates. You need to know which one you are viewing before trusting a widget.
Why previews use sample values
A blank template can be hard to understand. A progress ring with “65%” or a date card with an example day shows what the design could look like after setup. Sample data is useful for judging spacing, colors and label length, but it is not automatically connected to your phone.
Some WidgetCraft templates use example values so light premium styles look complete during browsing. The actual live catalogue can change, and an illustrated example on this website is not proof of a specific released template.
Try it on your home screen
- Locate one value in the editor, such as a progress number or a date.
- Check whether it was typed manually or linked to a clock, battery, calendar or other source.
- Change a harmless test value in the original source and look for the expected widget update.
- If nothing changes, check permissions and refresh settings instead of assuming the layout is wrong.
Check each source explicitly
Select the component and inspect whether its value is static text or connected to time, battery, local tasks or an optional advanced source. If it requires calendar, health, media or weather access, read the permission explanation before connecting it.
Test a value you can independently verify. For battery, compare with Android's status indicator. For the date, check your system date. For tasks, update an item in the associated local list. Give the widget time to follow its documented refresh method rather than assuming an instant change.
Label your own examples honestly
If you share a design screenshot with a fictional fitness number or weather forecast, say “design example.” Avoid making it look like a medical measurement or a live forecast. That keeps expectations clear for people who might import or recreate the widget.
For an overview of layout components, read Elements vs Components. For source troubleshooting, read widget permissions.
Check the result
Do not use a static example percentage to make a health or fitness claim. Mark demonstration screenshots as examples, especially when publishing them. A live reading may be delayed by Android background scheduling; a sample number does not have a refresh problem because it was never connected.
Common question: Does a realistic-looking widget preview prove the feature works?
No. The preview can display placeholders. Check the installed widget, source configuration and update behavior separately.