Vidgets

Vidgets are a hypothetical class of objects that combine characteristics of both widgets and gadgets. The term itself is a portmanteau, suggesting a fusion of these two concepts. A widget, in common parlance, refers to a small application or a graphical user interface element that performs a specific function. Gadgets, on the other hand, are typically small, mechanical or electronic devices designed for a particular purpose, often perceived as novel or clever.

A vidget, therefore, could be envisioned as a physical device that incorporates a digital interface or functionality, or conversely, a digital tool that has a tangible, interactive component. For example, a smart home device that has a physical dial for controlling temperature but also displays information on a small screen could be considered a vidget. Similarly, a miniature drone controlled by a physical joystick that also streams video to a linked application might fit this description.

The concept of vidgets highlights a blurring of lines between the physical and digital realms. As technology advances, many everyday objects are becoming "smarter" by integrating digital capabilities, making the distinction between simple gadgets and functional widgets less clear. Vidgets represent a category that embraces this convergence, suggesting devices or applications that are both inherently useful and playfully interactive. They are not yet a formally recognized category of technology, but the term captures a growing trend in product design and user experience.