Small applications residing in the top-most strip of the macOS desktop provide quick access to various system functions and third-party services. Examples include utilities that display system resource usage, calendar appointments, or quick access to music controls. These elements streamline workflows by presenting essential information and controls without the need to open full applications.
These compact programs enhance user productivity by offering immediate insight and control. Historically, they evolved from simple system monitors to sophisticated extensions of core application functionality. This accessibility reduces time spent navigating through multiple windows and contributes to a more efficient computing experience. The prevalence of these applets has solidified their position as a standard macOS feature.