How to create a home screen shortcut to a website on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Creating a home screen shortcut to a website on Android allows for quick access to your favorite sites directly from your device's home screen. This can be accomplished through various web browsers such as Google Chrome, Firefox, and Samsung Internet.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before creating a home screen shortcut, ensure you have the following:
  • •An Android device running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.
  • •A web browser installed (Google Chrome, Firefox, or Samsung Internet).
  • •Internet connectivity to access the website.
  • •Sufficient storage space on your device for new shortcuts.

Method 1: Using Google Chrome

This method is ideal for users who primarily use Google Chrome for browsing. It provides a straightforward way to create shortcuts.
  • •Step 1: Open the Google Chrome app on your Android device.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the website you want to create a shortcut for.
  • •Step 3: Tap the three vertical dots (menu) in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Add to Home screen' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 5: A dialog will appear; you can edit the name of the shortcut if desired. Tap 'Add' to confirm.
  • •Step 6: A prompt may appear asking if you want to add the shortcut automatically or manually. Choose your preferred option.
  • •Step 7: Verify the shortcut appears on your home screen by returning to the home screen.
  • •Step 8: If the shortcut does not appear, restart your device and check again.

For Android 11 and 12

Steps are similar but may have slight variations in the interface.
  • •Step 1: Open Google Chrome and navigate to the desired website.
  • •Step 2: Tap the three dots in the upper right corner.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Add to Home screen'.
  • •Step 4: Confirm the shortcut name and tap 'Add'.
  • •Step 5: You may see a prompt to drag the icon to your home screen; do so if necessary.

For Android 10 and below

The process remains largely unchanged, but the interface may differ slightly.
  • •Step 1: Open Chrome and go to the website.
  • •Step 2: Tap the menu icon and select 'Add to Home screen'.
  • •Step 3: Edit the name if needed, and tap 'Add'.
  • •Step 4: Confirm the addition by checking your home screen.

Method 2: Using Firefox

Firefox users can also create home screen shortcuts easily, with a slightly different process.
  • •Step 1: Launch the Firefox app on your Android device.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the website you wish to save.
  • •Step 3: Tap the three horizontal lines (menu) in the bottom right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Page' from the menu options.
  • •Step 5: Tap 'Add to Home screen'.
  • •Step 6: Edit the shortcut name if desired and tap 'Add'.
  • •Step 7: Confirm the shortcut appears on your home screen.
  • •Step 8: If it does not appear, clear the app cache and try again.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while creating a shortcut, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to add shortcut' - Solution: Ensure you have sufficient storage space on your device.
  • •Issue: Shortcut does not appear - Fix: Restart your device or check if the shortcut was added to a different home screen page.
  • •Problem: Shortcut opens a blank page - Workaround: Clear the browser cache and try adding the shortcut again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these additional tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - Android does not support keyboard shortcuts for this function.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Bookmark' instead of a shortcut for easier management of multiple sites.
  • •Tip: Organize your home screen by creating folders for shortcuts to keep it tidy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing shortcuts effectively can save time and enhance productivity on your Android device.