Google has released a Mac OS X version of its Gadgets application, making it possible for people to write a Gadget once and then run it on the web, a PC and a Mac.Powered by Google, the Gadgets are miniature objects created by developers that offer dynamic content that can be placed on any web page.
These mini applications, some of which are created by Google and others by third-party developers, can be used to show email, weather updates, personalised news and photos, among other content.
Meanwhile, other Gadgets provided by Google include a clock, calendar and to-do list.
According to the search engine provider, they "might come in handy when you're at work, at school or just passing time".
Google Gadgets had been available to Mac users previously, via third-party translators or through the company's online Gadgets service.
Now, however, the utility will be 'piggybacking' on Apple's own software.
The new software positions Google's Gadgets on the dashboard screen next to the Apple widgets, enabling users to access both sets of applications simultaneously.
According to VNUNet.com, the search engine has also updated the application to make it work on the Mac version of the software "with little or no change in code".
This means that developers will now be able to create gadgets for all three versions of the application. However, Google added that Gadgets which are reliant on Windows-specific application programming interfaces or programmes will not work with the Mac version.
Users are also set to benefit from automatic updates to the Gadget list, which will be released each week.
