Windows Sidebar refers to a feature in the Windows operating system that provides users with a customizable desktop sidebar, displaying various gadgets or widgets for quick access to information and frequently used applications. Introduced in Windows Vista and later versions, the Windows Sidebar is a vertical panel typically located on the right side of the screen, although it can be moved to any edge or even made to hover above other windows.
The sidebar contains a collection of small, standalone programs called gadgets or widgets that offer a range of functionalities, including displaying weather forecast, news headlines, calendar events, email updates, system performance statistics, and more. These gadgets can be selected, added, removed, or rearranged by the user, allowing for a personalized and productive desktop experience.
The purpose of the Windows Sidebar is to enhance user convenience and productivity by providing quick and easy access to useful information and tools. It is designed to be always visible but unobtrusive, allowing users to seamlessly glance at the sidebar while working on other tasks. The gadgets within the sidebar are often accompanied by minimalistic controls for customization, such as resizing or changing their position within the sidebar.
It is worth noting that with the release of Windows 7, the Windows Sidebar feature was replaced by the Windows Desktop Gadgets platform, which allowed gadgets to be placed freely anywhere on the desktop rather than being confined to a sidebar.
The word "Windows Sidebar" does not have a specific etymology on its own. However, it is derived from two separate terms: "Windows" and "sidebar".
- "Windows" refers to the operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation. The term "Windows" was chosen as a metaphor for the desktop-based graphical user interface that allowed users to interact with different applications and programs.
- "Sidebar" is a common term used in user interfaces to describe a narrow vertical panel or area typically placed at the side of a main window or screen. It provides access to various tools, shortcuts, or information related to the main content or application being used.
When combined, "Windows Sidebar" specifically refers to the sidebar feature introduced in Microsoft's Windows Vista operating system. It provided users with a customizable panel on the desktop where they could add mini-applications known as gadgets, display RSS feeds, access system information, and perform other tasks quickly.