New Windows Vista Gadgets

I’m not a huge fan of gadgets on the desktop. Does not really matter if they are implemented in the operating system or added by using a Widget engine. Placing gadgets on my desktop does not make lots of sense for me. Take a look at the available Gadgets at the Windows Live Gallery and you will probably understand why I feel that way. Why should I place another clock on the desktop, why a link to online radio or a game ? I may sound a bit old fashioned here but those things are not lifesaving enough that I would place them on my desktop.

But everyone has to make the decision on his own and I know that several of my friends are actually using the Windows Vista sidebar. The following is a list of gadgets for the Windows Vista sidebar that could find some fans among you.

All links lead directly to the download page at Windows Live that contains a download link, description, rating and user comments. One question that I would like to ask if you, if you use Windows Vista, also use the Vista sidebar and if you do which gadgets have been added to it. Lets start with a few new gadgets for Windows Vista.

Outlook Info displays several information about Microsoft Outlook including the number of unread emails, to-dos and a link to the calendar.

The Media Player gadget for the Vista sidebar offers control elements and drag and drop functionality. Looks ok if you are using Media Player as your main software player.

The Magic Folder helps you categorize files by moving them automatically into the right folder if you drop them onto the gadget. This means that picture files will for instance be automatically moved to the pictures folder.

Dictionary Gadget returns a word definition if the user enters a word or phrase in the text box.

CT Control is one of those gadgets that display system information but also some additional features like quick access to shutdown, log off buttons and a timer.

Screen Snaper is a gadget that provides functions to take screenshots.