Widget Instance
Display an active widget added to a sidebar within the editor or by using a shortcode, function or action.
The facts
- Rating
- 3.4★ from 9
- Active installs
- 500+
- Price
- Free
- Last updated
- 11 Jul 2018
- Added
- Jun 2012
- Requires WP
- 2.9.1
- Tested up to
- WP 4.9.31
- Downloads
- 13,856
Our analysis
AI-assistedWidget Instance is a WordPress plugin that enables users to display widgets outside of their assigned sidebars. It provides a shortcode and several utility functions for developers to integrate specific widgets into various parts of a site. This plugin is suitable for users who want more flexibility in widget placement without being limited to sidebars.
Best for: This plugin is best for WordPress users and developers looking to enhance widget placement on their sites.
What it does well
- ✓Allows display of widgets outside of sidebars
- ✓Includes a shortcode for easy use
- ✓Provides utility functions for developers
Where it falls short
- •Last updated in July 2018
- •Limited user ratings and low directory score
Verdict
Widget Instance offers useful functionality for displaying widgets in more locations, but its age and user feedback may warrant caution.
From the developer
Global's own description of Widget Instance, lightly tidied.
Widgets are normally displayed as part of a sidebar using the dynamic_sidebar()
function. There is the_widget function for static widgets, but there is no
equivalent for specific widgets configured in the Appearance > Widgets area.
The Widget Instance plugin allows WordPress users of all abilities to display
these widgets outside of the sidebars they have been assigned to.
Features
- A wysiwyg editor button for selecting available widgets,
- A shortcode [widget_instance id=”[widget_id]”],
- A theme action do_action(‘widget_instance’, [widget_id]) and finally
- Utility functions for developers get_widget_instance and widget_instance
Usage
- [widget_instance id=”[widget_id]”]
- do_action(‘widget_instance’, ‘[widget_id]’);
- the_widget_instance(‘[widget_id]’);
- get_the_widget_instance(‘[widget_id]’);