Cairo Shell: A Windows Shell Alternative

[winvienna]

Here is a cool website to do with the Windows Shell: http://www.cairoshell.com/
I am part of the forums and have been for about 6 months now so feel free to join. If you know any C#, thats what there primarily looking for but I think the also need people with knowledge of .NET as well. On the Cairo user forums I am : FEAR
I kind of use that as my username because I love the game.

[Dr.Vienna]

Thank you very much, and I will see what I can provide.

Best wishes.

[macosxp]

That just looks like Mac OS X Leopard Aqua ported to Windows.

[daryn]

My only issue with this system is that it looks too much like OSX, and while I do like the fact that -in my humble opinion- it looks nicer with this colour scheme, its too close and that could be viewed negatively by all the OS communities out there. A few teaks to move it in a different direction are all it really needs.

However, I support this project and will continue to watch its development - maybe even try it when the time comes.

Thank you for posting this, I never would have discovered it otherwise!

-D

[Finnius]

Private Alpha testing for the Cairo Shell is expected to start on June 29. Open Beta Tests will begin after that. Come join the growing community that is eagerly awaiting this new shell.

[cybx]

I know, why don't we turn Windows completely into a *nix?
I mean its just a themed X Window System clone that contains absolutely nothing for IT Professionals.

Features:
*Cairo Programs Menu
While the Windows 'Start' menu has progressed over the years, it still falls flat. Cairo's applications menu allows you to easily browse through programs without excess clutter. Powerful options allow users to see recent files by application and open them without an extra window.
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Haven't they seen Vista yet?
*Multi-Desktop
Switching between multiple 'virtual' desktops allows you to utilize the space of multiple monitors without all the hardware. Keep yourself organized with powerful tools to swap windows between desktops or add and remove them at your whim.
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Ok, could they also invent virtual CPU?
*Cairo Taskbar
Advancing the 'taskbar' concept, Cairo gives users the freedom to swap and group applications for easy-to-manage work-flow patterns. Integrating fully with the Cairo Multi-Desktop and other Cairo features, the Cairo Taskbar automatically adjusts to your application usage and is fully customizable.
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Hmmm... Looks more like a silverlight website banner menu to me, I'd rather a 3D desktop, not a 2D web page.
*Cairo Plug-in System
With low-resource plug-ins and endless possibilities, Cairo allows users to install, remove, or customize any extraneous feature. Each plug-in is thoroughly tested by Cairo developers for stability and performance, and to ensure that users enjoy an error-free desktop environment.
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More evidence of *nix copying.
*Drag and Drop Control
Many Cairo features include drag and drop functionality to easily add or remove options. Many specific tasks have multiple variances that allow the user to perform functions in a manner most comfortable to them. Finally, with an easy installation and configuration, you can be up and running quickly without unnecessary prompts. Should you choose, Cairo uninstalls just as quickly and is guaranteed not to conflict with system files or user data.
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Ok, Vienna will be finished by the time this thing gets popular with hopefully 10 times as much functionality, what's the point.
*Cairo File Explorer
With a sleek interface and organized layout, the Cairo File Explorer allows users to focus on their data without having to go on a treasure hunt. Despite it's ease-of-use, the Cairo file browser harnesses a powerful blend of tools and option to let managing your hard drive be simple and enjoyable.
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Ahh.. But I like Windows Explorer and Aero Glass, damnation.
*Dynamic Desktop
Browse files directly from your desktop. Not a power user? Just need a file quickly to show a friend or open in an application? With the power of Cairo's Dynamic Desktop, users can access their documents, movies, and pictures without opening a window. Unique browsing options make it quick and fun to explore your data. The best part? The dynamic desktop system works in tandem with the Cairo File Explorer to deliver unprecedented integration and functionality.
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I thought Windows Vista already had power saving, so will Vienna.
But as for theming most of these features a load of bull, because after trying the software, most of my programs, such as Visual Studio 2008 Professional Edition, Expression Studio 2, Internet Explorer 8 and also windows with glass effects did not work.
Please tell me this thing was for XP and Ubuntu.
Please read what I said in gest and you will see my input between the lines.
Thanks, CybX.

[Finnius]

But as for theming most of these features a load of bull, because after trying the software, most of my programs, such as Visual Studio 2008 Professional Edition, Expression Studio 2, Internet Explorer 8 and also windows with glass effects did not work.
Please tell me this thing was for XP and Ubuntu.
Please read what I said in gest and you will see my input between the lines.
Thanks, CybX.cybx

Posts: 37
Joined: Wed Jun 04, 2008 9:26 am


I'm curious what software you said you tried. I assume that you do NOT mean Cairo. I am on the Alpha team, and it has not been released yet.

[cybx]

Well, how come my PC crashes when I load the screenshot.
P.S. You didn't read between the lines...