Skinning, the process of changing the interface of software applications, has become a popular way of customizing the look of software. For some users, it's positively an obsession. Software developer Stardock feeds the need with the launch of a new version of its popular WindowBlinds skinning program. It should provide Windows XP users with endless ways of tweaking the graphical user interface (GUI) and even adds new features, such as window roll-up. TechTV Labs parts the curtains on WindowBlinds 3 to reveal its bright and not-so-bright spots. Overall, the program delivers on its promise of GUI customization, with neat extras that may convince you to abandon the regular Windows GUI forever.

Luna is so passe

Although Microsoft completely revamped the GUI of its operating system, calling it Luna, it unsurprisingly didn't satisfy everyone. WindowBlinds is compatible with Windows XP and lets you change the look of the OS's desktop and windows, commonly known as "themes" or, more recently, "visual styles" in XP. Unlike some skinning software, WindowBlinds lets you change the entire desktop and all windows, not just one application. You can also instruct it to keep a different look for specific programs.

WindowBlinds becomes part of the desktop settings after you install it. This means that to change the settings, you access Display Properties, which you can bring up by right-clicking on the desktop and choosing Properties, and then the Appearance tab. From there, you can choose a skin from the drop-down menu where you normally choose Windows themes or visual styles. Because of this easy integration, learning how to switch skins should be a breeze. A slightly higher learning curve may be required when working with the advanced configuration menu. This menu contains items to customize window components such as backgrounds and color. It may confuse new users, but should get easier with time.

A new feature in this version of WindowBlinds is something called Smart Buttons. It lets users select buttons and plug-ins without having to author them. The author of the skin, however, needs to create skins that support Smart Buttons in order for this to work. In our tests, very few of the included skins supported the feature, though there should be more downloadable ones soon. Skin authors can also create plug-ins that integrate into the window itself. For example, media player developers can now place controls such as play and skip next to the minimize and maximize buttons on the window, allowing quicker access to plug-ins.