Application widgets are miniature application views that can be embedded in other applications and receive periodic updates.

In Android, an application widget is a small, interactive, and frequently updated component that provides users with quick access to key information or actions from the home screen of their device without having to open the full application. Widgets are essentially miniature app views that can display information, offer controls, or perform specific actions directly on the home screen.

Key features of Android widgets include:

Real-time Updates: Widgets can display real-time information and are often updated automatically at regular intervals.
Interactivity: Users can interact with widgets directly on the home screen, such as tapping on a widget to open a specific section of the associated app.
Customization: Android users can often customize the appearance and behavior of widgets, depending on the options provided by the app developer.
Accessibility: Widgets enhance user convenience by providing quick access to relevant information without the need to navigate through the full app.
Variety of Sizes: Android supports various sizes for widgets, allowing developers to create widgets that fit different home screen layouts.

Developers can create widgets for their Android applications by implementing a special kind of Android component called an App Widget. App Widgets are bundled with the application but can be added to the home screen by the user. The process involves creating a widget layout, handling updates, and configuring the widget’s behavior.

Widgets are a powerful tool for enhancing user experience by providing at-a-glance information and quick access to app functionalities directly from the home screen.