So according to many sources, one of the two things left out of the Windows 7 RC/RTM is a new Graphical User Interface. With the exception of the Log-On screen, changed menus, the taskbar, and a slightly altered default color scheme, Windows 7 is pretty much a refined version of Vista.
Here's what might be included in the rumored new GUI:
I. Glass/Semi-Transparency Effects for all Windows/Apps:
One of the biggest inclusions in Aero is the fact that the taskbar, and some pop-up menus are semi-transparent, which looks great. What could possibly be added is a larger quantity of semi-transparent windows and apps. Microsoft Word 2010 might have a glass effect for its Ribbon interface, as well as MS Paint. Things such as right-click menus might also have semi-transparent effects.
II. Changed and Dynamic Icons:
This is a given. From build 7000 of W7 upwards, we've been seeing less icons seen in Vista/XP, and more original icons. By the official RC/RTM, I predict that many common icons will change. The beige folder icons will be replaced with the transparent blue ones we've been seeing. There also might be a prevalence of animated icons. For example. whenever you click the Internet Explorer icon, the yellow ribbon around the E might swirl. Dynamic icons might also be included, in which they will change based on what's contained inside the app, or folder (Similar to what we've seen in VIsta/W7 Beta).
III: Slimmer Appearance:
This is also a given. I predict that the GUI will be slightly smaller and slimmer. The taskbar might be a few pixels shorter than what it is now, and the start menu will be significantly changed from Vista's/W7 Beta's. For example, the start menu might consist of only the right panel, including your User file, Pictures/Videos/Games/Documents, etc. Programs will be split in a "Recent Progams" and "All Programs" button listed under the "Help and Support" button. To save space, there might be more things used in the space next to the Minimize/Maximize/Exit buttons on the top right of a window.
IV: More Mouse Gestures and Cursor Features:
I can totally see more mouse gestures, similar to Aero snap/shake. Perhaps clicking all three mouse buttons at once could make something happen. Also, I see a modified Aero cursor, which will have animations next to it similar to loading, but pertaining to the app. If you're in IE or FireFox, and the connection dies, perhaps a little Red X through WiFi bars will appear next to the icon.
Post your theories and predictions here!
Here's what might be included in the rumored new GUI:
I. Glass/Semi-Transparency Effects for all Windows/Apps:
One of the biggest inclusions in Aero is the fact that the taskbar, and some pop-up menus are semi-transparent, which looks great. What could possibly be added is a larger quantity of semi-transparent windows and apps. Microsoft Word 2010 might have a glass effect for its Ribbon interface, as well as MS Paint. Things such as right-click menus might also have semi-transparent effects.
II. Changed and Dynamic Icons:
This is a given. From build 7000 of W7 upwards, we've been seeing less icons seen in Vista/XP, and more original icons. By the official RC/RTM, I predict that many common icons will change. The beige folder icons will be replaced with the transparent blue ones we've been seeing. There also might be a prevalence of animated icons. For example. whenever you click the Internet Explorer icon, the yellow ribbon around the E might swirl. Dynamic icons might also be included, in which they will change based on what's contained inside the app, or folder (Similar to what we've seen in VIsta/W7 Beta).
III: Slimmer Appearance:
This is also a given. I predict that the GUI will be slightly smaller and slimmer. The taskbar might be a few pixels shorter than what it is now, and the start menu will be significantly changed from Vista's/W7 Beta's. For example, the start menu might consist of only the right panel, including your User file, Pictures/Videos/Games/Documents, etc. Programs will be split in a "Recent Progams" and "All Programs" button listed under the "Help and Support" button. To save space, there might be more things used in the space next to the Minimize/Maximize/Exit buttons on the top right of a window.
IV: More Mouse Gestures and Cursor Features:
I can totally see more mouse gestures, similar to Aero snap/shake. Perhaps clicking all three mouse buttons at once could make something happen. Also, I see a modified Aero cursor, which will have animations next to it similar to loading, but pertaining to the app. If you're in IE or FireFox, and the connection dies, perhaps a little Red X through WiFi bars will appear next to the icon.
Post your theories and predictions here!