Dev-Picayune

Somewhat inspired and somewhat depressed looking at the previously mentioned MobyDock, I happened upon this article about the transparency key and background color. This actually appears to work under a 32-bit color environment unlike some other things I have tried. I’m not sure if it is the fact that the frame is still there or not… but it is rather amusing to look at. Of all the things about MobyDock that I like is the ability to set a semi-transparent background and completely solid icons. This seems to give a VERY pleasing effect that stays consistent with the background and color scheme selected. Currently my only thought for making this work though would be have two windows (separate threads) where the bottom window does very little except be alpha-blended at some level (50%) and the top window is completely transparent on its background and only has icons on it positioned exactly at the same spot as the bottom window. I fear the threading would be a nightmare though.