What is a Widget?

A widget is a small application or program designed to facilitate access to the most commonly used functions of a device. Its main feature is that it integrates into the desktop of a computer or mobile phone, offering visual information without the need to run anything else.

In programming, the term refers to a part of a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that allows the user to interact with the application and the operating system. Widgets display information and invite the user to act in various ways. Typical widgets include buttons, dialog boxes, pop-up windows, drop-down menus, icons, scroll bars, resizable window borders, progress indicators, checkboxes, windows, cut menus, menu bars, toggles, and forms.

These Widgets are not only found on the web but can also be found in operating systems like Android, iPhone, Windows, etc. Thanks to this, we can add new functionalities that allow us to make the most of different tools.

Types of Widgets Although there are several types of widgets, these are the most well-known and widely used:

• Desktop Widgets: These are interactive tools that are downloaded to the computer’s desktop. Examples include search tools, weather applications, clocks, etc.
• Mobile Widgets: Similar to the previous ones but adapted to mobile technology. The easiest way to install them is by holding your finger on an empty area of the screen, where a drop-down menu with various widget options will appear.
• Web Widgets: These are code snippets that translate into functionality or content, programmed using JavaScript, Flash, Silverlight, or Windows Media Player.
• Physical Widgets: Compact mechanisms that integrate typical widget functions, such as alarms, weather, etc.

Most of them are not free and do not generate revenue. However, they are valuable tools for businesses, as they can be used to generate website traffic or simply to enhance brand image (branding).