Adding Context to the Desktop

Here's a prototype I've created to show how the Mac desktop might be augmented with contextual information/images. I've been thinking about this for a while, but was inspired by the release of the Windows application, Fences. I'm using the desktop as a simple demo space, but in reality this information could be added to any spatial file/folder view. I look forward to your comments and ideas.

UPDATE: Rémy has pointed out the Mac app-in-development, Grape (thanks!). The developer has stated it's development is currently 'on hold', but it's stated plans are quite ambitious and would be something like a 2D combo of Fences and Bumptop.

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Human-sensing Computer Monitors

I've been looking forward to this for a while:

Eizo's new screens boast a new Green 'auto off' feature that turns off the computer monitor when you walk away to get a cup of joe. I hope it's smart enough to not turn off when you're simply sitting still. I hope it becomes standard — I'm frustrated by the fact the computer doesn't know I'm sitting there enjoying a TED video and the screen dims! It's a nice start to a more context-aware computer
(Via fareastgizmos.com)

I discussed this idea previously in my blogpost on 3D cameras:

Imagine your computer recognizing when you walk in front of it. Or putting itself to sleep when you walk out of a room

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Real Reasons Why PC Folks Don't Buy Macs

  UPDATE: Goodness knows, the last thing the interwebatron needs is another Mac vs PC crusade. The list I present below is stated from my own professional perspective and was a response to a computing culture which polarizes issues, rather than seeing a mix or another set of possibilities. Of course I'd love to hear any considered anecdotes or thoughts either way.  I'll also happily save you some time spent writing a 'you're anti-mac!' statement by letting you know I'm one of the guys behind the Mac applications Comic Life and Skitch.   Sensory Metrics is a great blog. Mitch lists some reasons why 'PC people' don't switch to a Mac. The reason for the article is Belkin's Switch-to-Mac hardware/software product, which I've never used, but suspect is a good honest attempt to make the 'switch' easier. It was the slightly snide list which struck a chord. Mitch has inspired me to make my own list.

Real Reasons Why PC Folks Don't Buy Macs

1. They just learnt how to use Windows, and don't want to spend a whole bunch more time learning something else
2. Cost. You can buy a PC for dirt cheap, even if it is sub-par
3. They can't get community support from the majority of computer users around them with a Mac
4. Some of the experience is better on a PC:
   • Getting to the Desktop is easier
   • Managing Windows is easier
     • Toggle window visibility with the Taskbar
     • Every Document has a window
     • You can Command+Tab through ALL windows easily
     • The minimize buttons work as predicted
5. There are usually more USB ports on the laptops
6. Replacement parts like power adaptors are cheaper
7. Microsoft Office is usually bundled
8. Games work out of the box, no fiddling around
9. You can find more software choice at your local store (quality not withstanding)
10. You don't want to be associated with snide fanboys and elitists

  One more thing… 11. You can find the on/off switch on your desktop machine and don't give up in vain (true story)   Oh, I forgot the Apple Mouse and the loss of contextual menus. The average PC user seems pretty comfy with right-clicking for contextual menus. On the Mac, you either use a "weird" modifier key, set up your trackpad for two-finger click (I see lots of accidental triggerings), or set your Apple mouse to allow for the right click. The right click on the Apple Mighty Mouse causes lots of accidental right-clicks, from my experience. I've no experience with the new trackpads which offer an 'invisible' right click area. Can you think of any other common reasons I've missed?

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