what is a widget

A widget is an element of a graphical user interface that displays information or provides a specific way for a user to interact with the interface. It can be a relatively simple and easy-to-use software application or component made for one or more different software platforms. Widgets can include icons, pull- down menus, buttons, selection boxes, progress indicators, and more. They can also be interactive virtual tools for a desktop, providing timely information from various apps at a glance. In the context of smartphones, widgets create a larger space than a typical app icon to give quick access to information