Software

Windows 7 Theme For Windows XP

Posted by Mark on Wednesday, January 28th, 2009

It has been hinted that Windows 7 maybe released in the summer of this year (August) however if you can’t wait that long then there is a way to style up your desktop to look just like Windows 7.

All you need to do is download and install this cleverly designed theme created by Deviant Art. The new theme will change your icons, sidebars and the start menu.

Theme Screenshot:

win7

Deviant Art will also be able to provide you with more support information on the theme.

Windows 7 Creating A Buzz

Posted by John on Monday, January 26th, 2009

winlogoMicrosoft starts 2009 in fine form by launching Windows 7 beta which despite initial download problems has been welcomed with rave reviews. One of the companies success factors behind Windows 7 beta has been Microsoft’s ability to re-engage with its enthusiasts which was sadly lacking in the launch of Vista two years ago.

The beta version of Microsoft Windows 7 has been made available until January the 24th and downloads of the operating system have skyrocketed. This time round people have been widely discussing the product and there seems to be a real buzz around it. In essence this is due to Microsoft’s attempts to make the software more personable and putting the personal back in personal computers. This was done by involving the Microsoft community much more than they had in previous versions.

On viewing the beta and reading endless reviews it is clear that Windows 7 has made improvements in many key areas:

  • Enhancements in the Windows interface. One of the must noticable one’s is the ability to customise notifications and the number of icons displayed. This doesn’t sound like much but many of the frustrations with Vista was down to popups and notifications. The interface is also much smoother and noticeably more glassier.
  • Performance Improvements. Although it’s yet to be fully pushed Windows 7 seems much quicker and glides through Windows 7 much more elegantly.
  • The sleep function. It’s much faster this time round which means it’s actually a function users can use.
  • Quick Installation. Microsoft have simplified the installation process so that people can upgrade from previous versions much more easily.

Your thoughts on the new system would be warmly welcomed so why not leave us a comment telling us about your experiences.

Skype for Windows Mobile 2.5 Beta Released

Posted by Mark on Thursday, December 11th, 2008

A new beta version of Skype for Windows Mobile has been released. Skype for Windows Mobile 2.5 beta was released on Tuesday and the new version improves the application dramatically. Skype for Windows Mobile allows you to run the popular VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) desktop service on your Windows Smartphone or Windows Pocket PC.

The beta version comes with tabs at the bottom of the screen which allows you to view your contacts, dialling pad (used to make cheap International calls using SkypeOut), chat to contacts and chat/call history. The new version also boasts improved sound quality, better stability and of course free Skype-to-Skype calls.

For more information please consult the Skype for Windows Mobile website.

Minimise Microsoft Outlook to the System Tray

Posted by Pete on Friday, October 24th, 2008

Many people are frustrated by the way Microsoft Outlook remains in your taskbar (the list of open applications at the bottom of the screen) and doesn’t minimise by default to the system tray (on the right-hand side of the taskbar). It is simple however to fix this irritating issue.

1. Open Microsoft Outlook and right-click on the system tray icon.

2. Select the “Hide When Minimized” option.

You should now notice Microsoft Outlook disappears from the taskbar but remains in the system tray. This means that you can open Microsoft Outlook whenever you want throughout the day without it getting in the way.

Microsoft to show ‘Office 14’ at PDC

Posted by Richard on Wednesday, October 22nd, 2008

Sources at Microsoft have announced that ‘Microsoft Office 14’ as it has been code-named will be on show at the Professional Developers Conference (PDC) next week. Office 14 will debut alongside the next version of Windows, Windows 7 and Windows Cloud.

Steve Ballmer, Microsoft chief executive has already described some of the features for us to expect in Office 14 which includes office running inside the web browser and we can expect many more to come be announced at the PDC.