Thanks to a copy of Vista Ultimate and an inquisitive editor, I had a quick play with DreamScene today. This is an extra bit of software that can be downloaded via Windows Update and plays videos on the desktop in the place of a static wallpaper image.

I'll admit to being sceptical at first. As far as I'm concerned wallpapers in general are very nice but not worth wasting any time over. After all they should be covered up by whatever work I should be doing at the time. Still, they are a good way to make a statement when the computer is locked (Windows key and L, strongly recommended).

The videos supplied with DreamScene are well chosen. There is enough movement to make it worth while but not so much as to be overly distracting. And as the transparency effects of Glass still work, it's a good way of showing off a new Vista computer. You can even use your own videos. I'd suggest a small prize for the most inappropriate video people can think of, but I suspect most entries would violate our Acceptable Use Policy! What about a webcam feed mod?

My biggest concern though is battery life for my notebook. According to the Sidebar CPU meter, I've added something 10-15% load on my CPU over and above the 8% it normally runs at. That means a shorter battery life on the train, even if the constant movement will drive the person sitting next to me crazy.