Explore the features: Windows SideShow

Windows SideShow

This feature is included in the following editions of Windows Vista:

	Home Basic
	Home Premium
	Business
	Ultimate

Compare editions

Windows SideShow delivers information from your PC to a secondary display on two kinds of devices: those that are integrated into a computer, such as a small color display in a laptop lid; and those that are separate from a computer, such as a remote control or mobile phone. With this additional display you can view important information whether your laptop is on, off, or in sleep mode. Windows SideShow is available in Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business, Windows Vista Enterprise, and Windows Vista Ultimate.

Windows SideShow in Control Panel.

Windows SideShow uses gadgets, convenient mini programs, to extend information from your computer to other devices. Gadgets can run on a Windows SideShow–compatible device and update that device with information from your computer.

Choose gadgets and customize settings in Control Panel

From Control Panel, you can turn gadgets on and off for each of your devices. You can also set your computer to wake periodically (such as every hour) so that all gadgets that are turned on can update your devices with the latest information.

Windows SideShow: Not just on laptops

Windows SideShow in picture frame.

Windows SideShow–compatible devices can take many forms. The following are a few examples:

• Integrated devices on computers. If your mobile PC has an integrated Windows SideShow–compatible device, you can view your Windows Mail inbox without opening the lid or turning on the computer.

• Mobile phones. With Windows SideShow, you can configure a compatible mobile phone to show you your contacts and calendar, the latest updates from your favorite websites, your favorite pictures, and other information.

  Download the Windows SideShow for Windows Mobile developer preview and use your Windows Mobile device as a Bluetooth SideShow device. (Available for Windows Mobile 5 and 6 PocketPCs and Smartphones.)

Ricavision VAVE100 SideShow-enabled remote

• Media remote control. Find out what programs are showing next or schedule a recording for the next day. You can also browse through your Windows Media Center music collection from the display on the remote control without turning on the TV.

LG R200 laptop

Laptop with in-lid Windows SideShow display.