Are Windows 7 gadgets still being updated and patched?

Some third-party developers are still releasing, updating and patching Windows 7 gadgets; however, Microsoft has discontinued the entire gadget platform. Windows 7 legacy gadgets and widgets are no longer available for download from the Microsoft website.

Microsoft discontinued gadgets and widgets because they caused the Windows sidebar to experience serious security vulnerabilities that allowed developers to take control of the user's PC. Microsoft advises Windows 7 and Windows Vista users to disable the Windows sidebar and gadgets to protect their computers from these platform vulnerabilities. Windows 8 users do not need to do this because the operating system does not support gadgets.