Apps and Custom Widgets
Introduction
In the context of Wallboard, Apps and Custom Widgets are two distinct concepts used for enhancing the functionality of digital signage systems.
What are Apps?
Apps are specialized applications designed for seamless integration with the Wallboard system using the Widget API. This approach offers a smoother user experience compared to iframe-based custom widgets. Each server can host its own set of Apps, accessible within the content editor.
If you are interested, please contact our support for details at support@wallboard.info.
What are Custom Widgets?
All custom widgets will be deprecated as we transition to a new system for creating custom boxed scripts, known as Apps. We are considering the option of migrating some existing custom widgets to the new framework, but at this time, we cannot make any firm commitments. Apps offer the benefit of not being iframe-based in the editor, resulting in a smoother user experience.
Custom widgets are specialized Node.js modules uploaded to the server, tailored for use within the Wallboard system. Each server has its own set of custom widgets, which are frontend web applications that appear in the content editor.
Custom widgets provide integration into the content editor, while connector scripts do not. Each module’s CPU and memory usage are monitored, and you can manage them with basic controls to start, stop, restart, or delete as needed. Modules can also be assigned to specific customers.
Comparison
| Feature | Apps | Custom Widgets |
|---|---|---|
| Integration | Use Widget API for seamless integration | Node.js modules for frontend integration |
| Iframe Usage | Not iframe-based, smoother experience | iframe-based, potential performance issues |
| Server Hosting | Hosted on each server, accessible in content editor | Hosted on each server, accessible in content editor |
| Type of Modules | Specialized applications | Frontend web applications and connector scripts |
| Deprecation Status | New framework, replacing custom widgets | Being deprecated in favor of Apps |
Future Developments
As Wallboard transitions to Apps, the focus will be on providing a more streamlined and efficient user experience. This shift aims to enhance the overall performance and functionality of the system by moving away from iframe-based solutions.
Additional Information
For more details on Apps and Custom Widgets, or to inquire about transitioning existing custom widgets to the new framework, please contact our support team.