Stardock has released a new version of its popular Windows skinning utility, WindowBlinds. WindowBlinds is a program that enables users to completely change the look and feel of the entire Windows user interface -- title bars, push buttons, scrollbars, the Start bar, and more. WindowBlinds 5.1 includes new wallpaper changing functionality allowing users to provide a series of wallpapers that can change by the time of day or other criteria specified by the user. It also includes months of updates to enable WindowBlinds skins to be more compatible on software that has its own unusual interface controls along with faster performance. WindowBlinds 5.1 works on Windows XP in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
WindowBlinds works by integrating itself seamlessly into Windows XP to add support for thousands of visual styles that are available on the net. Starting with WindowBlinds 5, the program actually can improve overall performance thanks to making use of 3D acceleration on most video cards. Its engine supports alpha blending which allows skins to have smooth edges, glass-effects, and other visual improvements. It is the only program of its kind that is certified by Microsoft for use on Windows XP.
WindowBlinds is also used by dozens of companies to create their own custom looks for Windows including Blizzard (World of Warcraft skin), Microsoft, Alienware, ExtremeTech, and more. Users can also create their own skins using Stardock SkinStudio, a free program that provides a host of tools to make skin creation easier.
WindowBlinds 5 recently passed the 11 MILLION download mark on CNET"s Download.com and has been the most popular desktop enhancement download on CNET (and elsewhere) for over 50 consecutive weeks.