Microsoft Windows 7 - Walking through the new interface

Windows 7 will not appear radically different to users of Windows Vista. The default desktop setup is remarkably similar, save for larger, more legible icons displayed in the taskbar, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: The Windows 7 desktop.

Windows 7 also boasts additional improvements around its interface, as well as libraries, search, organization and mobility.

Interface and productivity

Microsoft has introduced several changes designed to make you more productive as you work within the Windows environment.

Full-screen previews

When you have multiple instances of the same application open (Internet Explorer, for example), Windows 7 has a new full screen preview function that allows you to see full details of the window's contents before you click on it. This is accessible from the taskbar.

Libraries

The addition of Libraries as a way to visualize and sort through files makes it simpler for users to find their documents and media by searching and displaying results by type. Figure 1-2 shows Libraries.

Figure 1-2: Libraries contain your documents, music, videos and pictures.

This organizational system also leads to more streamlined and effective search capabilities.

Improved search functionality

With the addition of Libraries, the improved Search bar located within the Start menu returns more useable and relevant results, shortening the time it takes to find what you're looking for. For example, if you search for "sample," you'll see the results organized by Library, as shown in Figure 1-3.

Figure 1-3: Searching for "sample" returns results organized by Library.

Jump Lists

Jump Lists are application specific and focus on getting you immediate access to the files or activities you access most. Your Windows Media Player® Jump List, for example, would contain songs, as well as actions like "Resume last playlist" or "Play all music shuffled." The Internet Explorer Jump List would offer shortcuts to websites you view often.

Figure 1-4 you'll see frequent destinations within Windows Explorer.

Figure 1-4: Frequent destinations in Windows Explorer.

Desktop organization improvements

Windows 7 makes it easier to compare two documents by "snapping" them to opposite sides of the desktop through simply dragging the document to the right or left side. Windows 7 automatically resizes the windows so they each fill half of the screen, putting an end to manual resizing and repositioning.

The "Show Desktop" icon will become a thing of the past. In Windows 7, simply move your cursor to the lower-right corner of your desktop. Your open Windows will become transparent, allowing you to easily find the desktop item you're seeking.

If you want to view only one Window on the desktop, grab the top of that Window and shake it with your mouse. The other open Windows minimize to the taskbar, leaving only that one open.

Unified device management

Windows 7 centralizes all your devices in one location, the Device Manager. You can view and adjust the properties for everything from cameras to fax machines.

Figure 1-5 shows some very basic information: monitor, fax, and so on.

Figure 1-5: The Windows 7 Device Manager.

A new feature called Device Stage takes the concept one step farther. It allows you to interact with any compatible device connected to your computer. What's more, device manufacturers can provide custom versions of Device Stage, which allows you to see all sorts of detailed information. A printer manufacturer, for example, could design a Device Stage that lets you change your printing profiles, see what's printing, buy ink and more.

HomeGroup

HomeGroup, a new feature in Windows 7 makes home-based or small-business networking simple. If you have a handful of employees or you work out of your home, you can share files, printers and more.

Windows 7 sets up a HomeGroup as soon as you add the first PC running Windows 7 to the network. Each additional PC running Windows 7 is then added to the group via a simple process of choosing what you wish to share.

Mobility

Windows 7 has new features designed around facilitating your mobile lifestyle.

VAN (View Available Network)

VAN provides one-click access to all available networks: wireless, VPN, mobile broadband or dial-up.

Power management improvements

Extending battery life is the Holy Grail for mobile PC users. Windows 7 provides some new power management options to help you get more out of your battery charge. Adaptive display brightness dims your screen if you haven't used the PC in a set number of minutes, and power requirements for playing DVDs have been reduced.