Still Don't Know What a Widget is?

Q: What is a widget? I hear this term frequently. So what is a “Widget” and why should I care?

You'd be amazed how many mac users still don't know what a Widget is or how many have never used one. Widgets are mini-applications that you download and install into Dashboard to add new functionality. Dashboard is only available in Tiger (OS 10.4). Systems before Tiger do not offer this software.

To access Widgets press F12 at anytime and the Widgets installed by default zoom to the front of your screen. Default Widgets include a forecast, calculator, measurements conversion table and even a language translator.

To have the forecast give your zip codes 6 day forecast, click the little “i” in the lower right hand corner. The Widget flips around. Input your zip code and click done. The Widget flips back now with your zip code specific highs and lows with the six day out look. To make all the widgets go away, either click anywhere that’s not on a widget or hit F12 again. The Widgets zoom off screen.

One particular Widget I find useful is the GAS Widget. When your zip code is entered, it finds the best gas price per gallon near you and even gives you the option of finding other close gas stations and their best prices. To find that widget and others go to : http://www.apple.com/downloads/dashboard/ They are free to download and use.