Windows 7 features

Desktop

With Windows 7, we’ve made it easier to get more done on the desktop.

New ways to juggle windows

Overwhelmed by open windows? Windows 7 comes with three simple yet powerful new features called Aero Shake, Aero Peek, and Snap to help you instantly clear through desktop clutter.

Peek-a-boo: Aero Peek turns open windows translucent so you can see what's on your desktop.

Spectacular new wallpapers

We spend a lot of time staring at our PCs. Aesthetics shouldn't just be an afterthought. That's why Windows 7 includes a slew of new desktop backgrounds—wallpapers—that range from sublime to silly. Or try the new desktop slide show, which displays a rotating series of pictures (ours or yours). Your desktop will never be dull again.

Windows 7 makes it easy to express your personality with creative new themes and other custom touches.

Retooled taskbar

Since Windows 95, the taskbar has served as the go-to spot for launching programs and switching windows. Times and PC habits have changed. So in Windows 7, the taskbar has been completely redesigned to help you work smarter, cut clutter, and get more done.

Improvements to the new Windows 7 taskbar include thumbnail previews of webpages, documents—even running video.

Improved gadgets

Gadgets, the popular mini-programs introduced in Windows Vista, are now more flexible and fun. Based on your feedback, we've done away with the Sidebar, so you can stick your gadgets anywhere on the desktop.

Favorite gadgets can go anywhere on your Windows 7 desktop.

Note: Not all features mentioned above are available in all editions of Windows 7. See the individual feature pages for details.

Device Management

In Windows 7, working with cameras, cell phones, and other devices has never been easier thanks to two new features: Device Stage and the Devices and Printers folder.

Device Stage

Device Stage provides a single place to check on and manage cell phones, printers, digital cameras, and other compatible devices.

Manufacturers can customize Device Stage to show relevant status (like the number of shots on your camera) and menu options (like picking a ringtone). Device Stage is always tailored to your device—down to the slick mugshot of your exact model.

Watch Device Stage in action.

Devices and Printers

The new Devices and Printers folder takes Device Stage a step further, showing you everything connected to your PC.

Domain Join

Plan to use your PC at the office—or for telecommuting? Then you might need to connect to a domain. A domain is a type of computer network commonly found in the workplace. (In technical-speak, it's a collection of computers that's centrally administered and operates under common rules.)

The Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate editions are designed to join a domain quickly and more securely. Just follow the easy-to-use wizard, which prompts you to enter your network credentials. A few moments later you're in business.

Domain Join quickly and safely joins your PC to workplace networks

Gadgets

Gadgets put information and fun—like news, pictures, games, and the phases of the moon—right on your desktop.

In Windows Vista, gadgets were corralled in the Sidebar. Windows 7 sets them free on the screen, where you can move and resize them as you like.

Drag a gadget close to the edge of the desktop—or another gadget—and watch it snap neatly into place for a streamlined look. Open windows getting in the way of your gadgets? Use Aero Peek to make them instantly reappear.

Put your gadgets anywhere on the Windows 7 desktop.

Getting Started

Whether you're new to computers or a seasoned pro, Getting Started can get you up and running faster on your new PC.

Getting Started is a central place for transfering and backing up files, adding user accounts, and personalizing Windows 7—in other words, all the things you typically do with a new PC after opening the box.

The Getting Started window in Windows 7