What is a widget?

Many people come across widgets, but they are not always clear. So many people wonder, what is a widget? In this blog, we explain exactly what a widget is, how it works, and why they are essential for modern apps and mobile systems.

An Extension of an App

In short, a widget is simply an extension of an app. Do you have a specific weather app on your phone? Chances are, this app also has a widget. You can place this widget on the front page of your Apple or Android phone. Click here for a simple and easy-to-understand explanation of how to use widgets on Android.

The term widget also literally stands for "gadget" or "thing" in English. To make it more difficult to explain, it is a way to create small visual components in a graphical environment. In short, it is a clear plugin that enhances the user experience of an app or system.

Apps and Systems Often Contain Many Functions

Many apps and operating systems come with multiple built-in functions. However, some features might be missing. This is where widgets can help. Widgets provide additional functionalities to apps and operating systems, making them even more useful. Some operating systems even allow third-party developers to create small apps or widgets to enhance the user experience, catering to specific needs or target groups.

For example, if you’re developing a custom mobile app, you might consider adding a widget to enhance the overall user experience. Learn more about mobile app development to get started.

Widgets on Apple vs. Android

Widgets are often handled differently on Apple vs. Android. This is mainly because Google has fewer restrictions on widgets, allowing almost any developer to create a widget for Android devices. On the other hand, Apple’s guidelines are stricter, meaning fewer widgets are available compared to Android. However, it’s important to keep in mind that widget functionality can vary depending on the phone brand and model. Some manufacturers impose additional restrictions, limiting widget capabilities.

Want to dive deeper? Check out this guide from Android Developer Documentation for more insights on building widgets for Android.

When Does a Widget Come in Handy?

If you're asking, "What is a widget?" it's also helpful to know when a widget is most useful. Widgets are ideal when you want to access a specific functionality of an app or system without opening the full app. This is particularly helpful for tasks like checking weather, news, or stock prices, where quick access to updates is crucial.

Widgets are additional extensions that aren't essential but greatly improve the system’s usability. If you're looking for a function that isn't natively available on your system, a widget might be the perfect solution.

Have a Widget Made

If you'd like to have a custom widget created, it's definitely possible! It’s essential to have a solid plan for your widget's functionality and design. At 4BIS, we specialize in creating custom widgets tailored to your needs. Whether you want to enhance an app or create a standalone widget, we can help bring your vision to life.

Curious about how we can help with custom widget development? Read more here! Prefer to speak directly with us? Visit our contact page for more information.