Skins are often functionally interactive. Many utilize plugins that can interact directly with applications or the operating system (e. g. browser searches or volume control). Others may function just as eye candy. Rainmeter is configured to run automatically after installation and comes preconfigured with the default “Illustro” skin, with helpful hints and tutorials. Other similar software options include Deskscapes, Windowblinds, or SysAuto, which will work in a similar fashion.
You are also not limited to a single skin; multiple skins can be loaded simultaneously. For example, you may load two separate skins for a media player controller and a custom weather display. Common skins include designs for browser bars, custom clocks, CPU usage displays, or music player overlays.
Skin downloads can come in two formats depending on how the creator decided to package them: . rmskin, a format specified for Rainmeter, or an archived folder (. zip, . rar). Not every feature from a . rmskin installer has to be used. The . rmskin installer will open a window to confirm which features of the skin you want included. You can deselect checkboxes of features you do not want prior to installing.
To apply newly installed skins right click the Rainmeter tray icon and select “Refresh All”. If there are multiple versions of a skin, they will be listed in the “Variants” menu. You can switch between variants at any time if you want a change in design. Skins can also be unloaded from the right-click menu.
A skin is a . ini file. This the most basic level to start with. Folder structure matters, since skins can have variants, . ini files can be grouped into config folders to identify them (e. g. 2 variant skins for a custom clock) Multiple skins combine to make a skin suite. The combined package is known as a “Root” folder. Roots are what get placed in the “Skins” folder when installed.
GeekTools is another free software option that will work similarly make your desktop more interactive.
Übersicht’s term for a background design is “widget”.
Widget functions will vary from interactive to visual, including options like software developer tools, daily comic strips, or variable wallpapers.
Some widgets may have custom installation requirements. Check the widget’s documentation for any possible extra steps.
Want your desktop to give you a daily greeting? Integrated notifications? Custom display? You are limited only by your coding skill and imagination.
