Pimp my XP: 2 visual makeovers for a 2 generation old OS

Still using XP? You're not alone. Numbers from sites using Statscounter show that over 70% of computer users are on Windows XP. Still, XP came out in 2001, and with Vista and 7 around, it's hard not to wish your computer looked a bit more modern. Here are two ways to make your dinosaur, erm, computer look loads better.

XP makeover 1: Turn XP into OSX

What self-respecting Windows user doesn't drool over Macs? The LeopardXP Bricopack is the most complete XP to Mac transformation application out there, and it installs everything you need, including visual styles, icons, and a mac-style dock, with just a few clicks. If you just want the visual style without the applications (if you have the ones you want to use in mind), just grab the visual style here.

XP makeover 2: Modernize XP with xpize

Mac not your thing? Share a computer with picky users that can't stand change? Look no further than xpize. xpize is primarily intended to make bits of Windows XP that remind users of Windows 2000 more, er, XP-like, or xpize them. But the real power is that, when I installed xpize, it gave me the choice of plenty of themes. I chose Luna Element (screenshot) and love it. Everything looks fresh and modern. It didn't deliver the pretty clock promised in this screenshot, but everything else is great.

One last thing

Keep experimenting! Check out every theme that interests you! First, patch your uxtheme.dll. This allows for non-Microsoft themes. Then pick up some themes from devantART or Customize.org. If you want to do some power tweaking, check out Anolis, which allows you to tweak XP to the level that xpize does, and more. There's probably a theme out there, just waiting for your XP. If not, just create your own. Enjoy!