Launchy Makes It To Version 2.0
Launchy, the cool open-source Windows utility that let’s you open applications with a few keystrokes and also which we covered WAY BACK on episode 48 has reached version 2.0. This new version supports a cleaner interface with glossier buttons and polished icons. Skinning support has been improved with support for transparency, fade effects, and other visual tweaks.
Program options have been condensed into one window which makes finding a certain command a breeze. Meanwhile, plugins have become more customizable but will not work with version 2.0 just yet. Also, when you upgrade from a previous version of Launchy, your configuration while will be wiped away.
The default skin for 2.0 is very nice looking, reminds me of the graphical elements presented in Vista. Speaking of Vista, this functionality is built right into the start menu but Launchy works just as well in XP. There are also reports of version 2.0 running faster than 1.0, so there are more than a handful of reasons to upgrade or to give the program a try for the first time.
You can download the newest version of Launchy here.
Thanks Jeff, Merry Christmas Mate! Please visit Jeffro2pt0 and say Hello, Also check out the latest GGP
December 20th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
Nice one Jeff. The reminder has been popping up in my screen since yesterday that a new version is out and I have been so busy I have not had time to check it out. But I now have! Thanks.
One thing of note is that I think the download link is getting hammered and it might take a few goes to get the new version, keep at it cause this is one of my killer apps.
This application combined with RocketDock eliminates the need for shortcuts! When you have some very nice wallpaper and dual screens that are as clean as it really is worth it.
Couple of tips: Make launchy index your music and iTunes directory –> make sure that you tell it to index .mp3 and .mp4 then you can call up any track with Launchy.
Force yourself to use it and soon it will become second nature and you won’t miss the shortcuts. I hate em!
This version looks a lot nicer and the effects are nice and don’t tax anything so it is just eye-candy but cool candy! Love this thing. There is heaps you can do with it and it rocks – a GGP must have.
Dave
December 20th, 2007 at 9:14 pm
I’ve actually installed Launchy 2.0 and I must say, WOW. I get one of the best features of Vista in XP with eye candy to boot. It’s actually sort of scary, now that I can see my desktop with nothing on it except a recycle bin.
December 24th, 2007 at 12:09 pm
Hmmmm looks like Quicksilver or Launchbar on the Mac.
YAWN!!!!