Some examples of good Google Gadgets
There's no formula to what makes a good gadget, but there are certainly things to think about when creating one. Does it provide useful, and frequently updated information? Or does it provide service that people will need to use frequently? Is it diverting? Fun? Attractive?
If your you can provide good answers to these questions, then your gadget may be a winner. In the meantime, here are some gadgets that we think are good, and which are popular among iGoogle users. To see a longer list of gadgets that are popular at the moment, visit the iGoogle Gadget Directory. If you have an iGoogle page, then you can add these gadgets to it - just click "Add to Google" underneath the gadget.
To Do
This 'to do' list gadget is an example of a simple user tool. The gadget allows you to note down what you need to do today, move the items around, and delete individual items when tasks are completed.
Daylight map
A gadget built using the Google Maps API that shows where in the world it's day and where it's night. As well as the standard Google maps, a second layer of information shows how the countries in darkness light up at night. Because the developer is using tools that already exist, he can build a popular and sophisticated gadget with relatively little work.
The Earth From Above
This gadget was created using images by renowned photographer Yann Arthus-Betrand and a feed of environmental information from GoodPlanet.org. Not only is it an attractive gadget, it also carries a serious message, and updates daily. The second tab of the gadget shows the area photographed embedded in a Google Maps mash-up.
Third party gadgets and links are listed for your convenience. Google does not make any representation, endorsement or warranty regarding their content.