What does “widget” actually mean? The term often appears in connection with smartphones, tablets or notebooks. We explain what’s behind it.
“Widgets” are small tiles that collect information about applications. (Source: Netzwelt)
The term “widget” is a portmanteau of “window” and “gadget” which means something like “device”. “Widget” refers to a type of mini-application on smartphones or an interactive element of a graphical user interface on PCs and tablets. The small tiles are often found on the home screen or are grouped together behind a button.
“Widgets” provide information about installed applications, such as the current weather or calendar entries. Clocks, search engines or lock screens are also available as widgets – in principle, developers can program and make them available for all their software. The small applications for smartphones and computers are very similar.
Abbreviations in the quiz: What do IDK, BFF and Co mean? Test your knowledge.
What does “yeet” mean?
“Widgets” usually consist of freely movable tiles, such as on the iPhone. On the one hand, they consist of the window, which is controlled with the mouse or finger, and on the other hand, of a non-visible object that saves the state and can change the visible area. The “widgets” are integrated into an overhanging window system for interacting with us or other “widgets”.
In the meantime, “widgets” are available in almost all common operating systems. You can usually access them from the home screen or desktop. They do not function independently in the operating system, but have their own engine as an interface, which makes them more energy-efficient than apps.
Don’t miss anything with the NETWORK-Newsletter
Every Friday: The most informative and entertaining summary from the world of technology!