Microsoft Developing Extensible Window Manager

Sources close to Microsoft are reporting the software giant is developing a customizable window manager for its upcoming Windows 2000 successor codenamed Whistler. Although little is known regarding the new feature, specifics have begun to trickle in. Much like Stardock's WindowBlinds, the new window manager will allow the user to customize the look and feel of the Windows desktop to his or her liking. By creating themes, applications can be skinned simply by dropping a theme into a specified directory. All controls will be skinnable, including scrollbars, and transparency support is in the works.

Surprisingly, the window manager will not be truly implemented into the operating system. It will change the look of windows by hooking them, exactly how Stardock's WindowBlinds functions. This however may be a strategic move by Microsoft, as it allows them to remove the feature if not successful. The company did this in Windows 3.11 with ctl3d.dll supporting 3D-style Windows. Microsoft did not want to commit to the change and waited until Windows 95.

Despite functioning the same as WindowBlinds, performance will not necessarily be similar. Microsoft developers have full access to Windows source, giving them the upper hand. Stardock was forced to figure many things out themselves, without the aid of glancing at Windows source to find an answer.

Early signs of the window manager appeared this January, when Microsoft solicited job offers for software engineers to help with development. The job posting was quickly removed however, leaving many guessing about Microsoft's plans.

With Whistler base code complete, Microsoft is concentrating on application compatibility in the upcoming OS, especially for games. Whistler is expected for release in 2001.