Overview
DesktopX supports the creation of three different types of widgets:
- objects; loaded into a running DesktopX environment.
- widgets; groups of objects packaged into executables that require DesktopX (equivalent to Yahoo! Widget Engine widgets).
- gadgets; totally standalone widgets provided as applications.
Objects may be controlled by scripts written in either VBScript or JScript, although they are not always required.
Many common actions are provided for as in-built object functions, such as:
- running a program.
- displaying a menu containing the contents of a folder.
- emptying the Recycle Bin.
Similarly, animation, sound and variation depending on the object's state (for example, mouseover or clicking) can be modified without scripting.
DesktopX plugins also avoid the need for scripting common tasks, by offering extra functionality such as media player displays and controls (currently available for iTunes, Winamp, CoolPlayer, an internal version of Windows Media Player and Stardock's own ObjectMedia) and access to Windows Management Instrumentation.
As users often wish to have a uniform desktop style, a common practice is to create several widgets as a coherent theme. A few popular artists sell themes in the WinCustomize store.
As of 2010 there are three main standalone divisions of DesktopX:
- DesktopX Client, which allows the use of desktops, objects and widgets.
- DesktopX Standard, which includes the DesktopX Builder that creates objects and widgets as well as desktops.
- DesktopX Pro, which allows the creation of gadgets that may be sold as separate applications or used to promote a website.
DesktopX Standard may also be obtained as part of an Object Desktop subscription. Corporations may purchase DesktopX Enterprise, allowing the creation of secure desktops.
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