TrueTransparency for Windows

Lefreut's TrueTransparency adds Aero effects, themes, and other enhancements to Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7 versions that lack built-in GUI enhancements. This portable freeware also enables WinRoll. An exclusion/inclusion list makes it easy to configure TrueTransparency.

Pros

Snap-n-Shake: TrueTransparency was developed to add Vista's GUI enhancements to XP, but it can also add Aero Shake and Snap to Windows 7 Starter and Home Basic, too.

Tray chic: TrueTransparency's system tray menu let us select which effects and skins to apply at startup, as well as interface language and other options. The Exclusion Manager already lists some apps, including WinAmp. We could also set TrueTransparency to start with Windows by checking Run at Startup.

Attractve skins: TrueTransparency's five skins even work in Windows 7 versions with native Aero.

Cons

Skins cover features: TrueTransparency's skins conflict with some existing enhancements, such as Quick Access Toolbars in Office apps. Setting the toolbar to appear below the Ribbon defeats the reason it's in the title bar to begin with. A better way is to add apps like Word to TrueTransparency's exclusion list.

Not necessary: Only two of the six Windows 7 editions lack Aero enhancements, and the number of XP and Vista installations is dwindling (Microsoft no longer supports XP).

Bottom Line

TrueTransparency is a great addition to those Windows versions that lack GUI enhancements found in later or fancier editions. WinRoll compatibility and an exclude/include list add yet more capabilities. If you need (or just want) its enhancements, TrueTransparency delivers them.