2. Digging Into The Details Of Media Center Edition 2005

The first big difference between this newest version of MCE and its two predecessors are immediately noticeable, even before the software is launched. MCE 2005 sports a new look and feel that is more elegant and functional than the Luna interface it replaces. You'll also find desktop themes with new background images and screensavers; including names like Space, Nature, Aquarium and Da Vinci. That last item could very well be a nod to Bill Gates, who's said to be a huge fan and admirer of the Renaissance.

The main menu for MCE uses typography and layout to make itself readable and usable from the couch, instead of an office chair.

Media Center itself doesn't appear to have changed much on a first quick look. Menus and sub-menus remain logically organized, and a new screen font improves readability on a TV set. The real advances in this version are largely transparent and hidden within the software, which include:

the ability to use two TV tuners in tandem so users can record one program while watching another; high-resolution HDTV capabilities with support from the right hardware (options remain limited, especially in North America); expanded capabilities in the EPG now support search criteria based on actors' or directors' names, film ratings or rankings and key words for a favorite show or movie; integration of Windows Media Player 10 adds advanced music functions, such as synchronizing content with mobile MP3 or WMA players, or with platforms that support Microsoft's own Portable Media Center specification (which also handle TV and DVD programs as well); Integration of Windows Messenger (Microsoft's home-grown IM application) right into the MCE interface; Support for Media Center Extenders, which can send TV programs, music, and digital photos from a Media Center PC in one room to a TV set (or other compatible device) in another, while users can manage media sessions remotely.

Mobile Media Center devices like Creative Labs' Zen are designed to work with MCE, and to deliver video, TV, movies, or digital photos to their users.

As an added bonus, Microsoft bundles four applications on the MCE CD that are otherwise available only on added-cost Plus! Packs for Windows XP. Two of these programs are fluff - namely Windows Party Mode, a full-screen interface for Windows Media Player that works with the MCE remote, and Windows Dancer for the desktop. But the other two programs add useful functions: The Windows Audio Converter can change WMA music files into MP3 format, and vice versa; while the CD-Maker program lets users create CD covers and booklets for online and hard copy use.