Anilrgowda

As first reported on our Events Page by Larry Richman, tonight at the Keynote address in Las Vegas, Microsoft finally revealed some details about its much anticipated Vista Ultimate Extras.

On his website, Mauricio Freitas says, "Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate combines advanced infrastructure features of a business-focused operating system, all of the management and efficiency features of a mobility-focused operating system, and all of the digital entertainment features of a consumer-focused operating system. In summary, it's the version with all options enabled."

For some that'd be enough. But Vista Ultimate has a few more surprises. It brings some cutting edge programs, bundled with some innovative services. Eventually these software packages will be available for download from the Windows Update service, exclusively to owners of Windows Vista Ultimate. A nice treat for those spending the extra bucks on Ultimate.

We already know for sure about five of these 'Extras.' The first is an enhanced version of Windows Hold 'em, a poker game. Another is a application called 'Group Shot.' The third, revealed tonight, is called Windows Media Center SportsLounge. The later brings an IPTV feed of sports related media to Vista Ultimate desktops thanks to a content partnership with Fox Sports. Another is BitLocker and EFS Enhancements which help secure your files even better.

But the most anticipated (trust us, we've been dying to tell you about this) 'extra' is by far Windows DreamScene. DreamScene is a full motion video desktop capable of showing high definition visualizations on the desktop at 30 fps. Make sure to checkout the Keynote address as soon as it's available here and you'll see why this is amazing. You can also watch a video of this at the Windows Ultimate website.

If you're wondering how it compares to those old applications (you can still find them on the web) that create "animated backgrounds." Let's just say it's the difference between night and day.

In-House