Visual Styles

[HybridLeo]

I've been analyzing Windows XP for quite some time now and
noticed how almost all people like the idea of having a
new style of interface for the new version of Windows
called Luna. Over time, since Windows XP has been
released, some people have gotten tired of the Luna Visual
Style and resorted to Third-Party software to add new
Visual Styles that are more appealing. I have several
questions about this particular topic.

First question: If I were to use a Third-Party Visual
style for WinXP how would it affect the OS?
Question 2: Would Microsoft recommend using these Visual
Styles for Windows XP?
Question 3: Would it be possible to create a professional
looking Visual Style without destroying the OS?
Question 4: Does Microsoft have any thoughts of making new
Visual Styles for XP and at what cost?
Question 5: If they are coming out with new Visual Styles
would they deploy some sought of program or something so
others can make new visual styles (i.e. Companies,
Businesses, other people)?

 

[Donald McDaniel]

See below..........


Depends on which one you use. Some are resource hogs. I use Style XP
(www.tgtsoft.com) and it uses no resources at all and does not affect
the os in any negative way.


Sure why not. MS makes themes (visual styles) for xp. And even if they
didn't recommend, who cares. They work fine with or without ms's
blessing.


Yes, quite simple with the right tools. Style Builder is a good one.


For XP, I doubt it. They already have the Plus pack for xp which has
themes(styles) and games and such, but it isn't very good for the
money.


You don't need ms for this. There are already available many tools to
create your own and there are websites dedicated to styles with
thousands available for download and install. Check out
www.themexp.org

Actually, there are only TWO tools for creating your own visual styles:
StyleBuilder, from TGTsoft, and SkinStudio, from Stardock. Of the two
tools, SkinStudio from Stardock is the easiest to use, and has the greatest
number of features.

Get SkinStudio here: http://www.skinstudio.net/
Get WindowBlinds (the premier skinning engine) here:
http://www.windowblinds.net
Get WindowBlinds skins here: http://www.wincustomize.com



--
Donald L McDaniel
Post all replies to the Newsgroup,
so that all may be informed.
Remove the obvious to reply by email.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++