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Stardock Corporation, the world’s leading provider of desktop enhancement software, has launched two new versions of their award-winning product: Object Desktop 2008 and Object Destktop 2008 Ultimate.

The Object Desktop program is designed to work in conjunction with Windows for full customization by and for the user. Like the previous versions of Object Desktop, the 2008 version allows users to take complete control of their Windows environment and experience.

Object Desktop 2008 features some unique programs including:

WindowBlinds: Allows Windows users to change the look and feel of the Windows interface by applying a new “skin”.

IconPackager: Allows users to change all their Windows icons by applying them to “packages”.

DesktopX: Enables users to build their own desktops, widgets, and gadgets.

DeskScapes: Allows users to have animated wallpaper (for Vista only).

SoundPackager: Brings customization of the auditory experience through the use of “sound packages”.

The Ultimate version of Object Packager includes even more programs such as:

TweakVista: Configures Windows Vista to meet a user’s needs, increasing the performance and productivity of the computer.

SkinStudio: Allows the user to create new visual “skins” for WindowBlinds.

IconDeveloper: Allows import of images designed with other programs, then turns them to icons.

Object Desktop 2008 can be purchased at the Stardock website for $49.95, and the Ultimate edition is priced at $69.95.

Source

Perhaps after all this while grappling with Blue Screens of Death while using Microsoft products, the company’s conscience has finally been pricked as they decide to help you save time instead of waste it with the aforementioned problem by launching a software technology known as “Clearflow”. Not only does this software helps drivers with directions, it can also be used to avoid traffic jams so that you will be able to arrive home in time for dinner with the missus. The technology involved has been in the works for the better part of the last half decade, thanks to the efforts of AI researchers from Microsoft’s Research lab. Clearflow aims to alleviate traffic congestion by applying machine-learning techniques. When launched, Clearflow will support 72 cities in the US and is available via Microsoft’s maps.live.com service.

Source: Techtree

Well, they may be a little late to gifting hd dvd purchasers something to help cover the blow, but better late than never. For those who purchased an HD DVD player before February 23, 2008, Amazon is giving $50 Amazon credit to anything, to which there are, of course, some restrictions. The biggest restriction being the items have to be sold by Amazon and not a third-party merchant. You can also only get up to $500 back (which means you can redeem up to 10 HD DVD players), so that eleventh box, you’re just going to have to hang on to. Check out the letter from Amazon below:

Dear Amazon.com Customer,

As someone who purchased an HD DVD player from us before February 23, 2008,* you might like to hear about a special offer available from Amazon.com.

New technologies don’t always work out as planned. We at Amazon.com value our customer relationships more than anything and would like to support customers who purchased these players by offering a credit good for $50 off any products sold by Amazon.com.** Just use promotional code XXXXXXXXXX when checking out. The code is valid through April 9, 2009, so you have plenty of time to use your credit. Purchases from third-party merchants on our site are not eligible.

* On February 23, 2008, the last manufacturer of HD DVD players announced it was ceasing production of those players.

** Offer cannot be used to pay for special-order titles, e-books or downloadable e-content, wireless service plans, gift certificates, gift-wrap, taxes, or shipping and handling charges. $50.00 promotional credit is per HD DVD player purchased prior to February 23, 2008–up to 10 units for a maximum credit of $500.00.

Via [EngadgetHD]

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If you’re taking part in an Indian celebration, have a kid who wants a tattoo but is waaaaaaay too young, or you’re just a mad crazy fan of henna, then Henna Penna is for you. As the name strongly implies, this product is henna… in a pen. Which is a godsend, as anyone who’s tried to do anything with henna (multiple hair dyes, here) knows how messy the darn thing can be.

Henna Penna pens are available in a range of colors including emerald and traditional brown and black, and can be used with stencils or freehand. At $25.75 per pen (from Nonstop Bazaar) they’re not dirt cheap, but they are all-natural and not tested on animals, so you your kids can play without fear. (Although I must advise some caution: designs fade, but can’t be erased, so not something to play with on the face, perhaps…)

This would have kept me quiet for hours when I was younger (hey, it still might today) and let’s face it, it’s a bit more fun than the last pen I wrote about.

Via Crafty Crafty, where they have made a rather nifty video about the whole process.