If you have used the final build of Windows 8, then you might have noticed that it has no gadgets like Windows 7. While Windows 7 provided users with a lot of handy gadgets like the clock, sticky notes and weather gadget, Windows 8 seems to have scrapped the concept altogether. This can be quite annoying for people who might be accustomed to using some of these handy gadgets (e.g. the weather or sticky notes gadget). In a note by Microsoft on the Desktop Gadgets gallery (on the Windows website), users have been notified that the gadgets are no longer available. Nonetheless, you can get these gadgets back with the help of a third party application.
8GadgetPack is a Windows 8 application that installs the good old Windows 7 gadgets to your Windows 8 desktop. Furthermore, with the help of this tool you can even add and use additional gadgets from your very own collection. To use the 8GadgetsPack download the application from the link given at the end of this post and execute the setup file. You will see a SmartScreen Filter of Windows 8, which commonly appears to warn against the installation of potentially harmful third-party application. Simple click the More info button to proceed further.
Once done, select the Run Anyway and allow the program to run normal. If you have UAC (User Account Control) enabled, you might have to allow the application via UAC as well.
After the 8GadgetPack is installed, you will notice a new bar on the right side of the Desktop, containing your usual clock, picture, weather and other gadgets.
You can right-click on the sidebar to reveal the following features:
- Add Gadgets
- Show all Gadgets
- Close the Sidebar
- Hide all Gadgets
- Access additional options
- Close Sidebar
You can also use the right-click menu to access the Windows 7 like gadget options in Windows 8 (after installing the 8GadgetPack).
This application works with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 8.
Download 8GadgetPack
