Seven things you didn't know about Windows 7

By Ina Fried on 11 November 2008, 11:11am

While Windows 7 has had plenty of attention over the past two weeks, there are some innovations and improvements in the new OS that haven't had as much coverage. Here are seven new features -- see what we did there? -- that caught our eye.

1. Standard approach to mobile broadband

Windows 7 treats mobile modems as a standard connection, much like a Wi-Fi network, popping them up in the same available wireless networks dialogue.

Sierra Wireless has already said it will support the new approach, which should make life much easier for frequent travellers (Crave included). One of our few gripes about the prebeta Windows 7 laptop we're using is that it doesn't recognise our relatively new USB Sprint modem.

2. Help with public Wi-Fi spots

With many public Wi-Fi hot spots, once you connect to the network, you have to do something in your browser, such as agree to certain terms or enter a password. Windows 7 pops up a notification that tells you that, although you have to be connected to the network, more action may be needed and it gives you a direct link to open your browser.

3. Windows Troubleshooting

Sure, it would be better if your computer just worked. But, acknowledging that's not always the case, Microsoft has added a central place in Windows 7 to try to work out what went wrong and why.

Among the kinds of problems Windows Troubleshooting aims to solve are issues with networked printers, detecting hard drive problems, and even some proactive things, such as figuring out how much life a laptop battery has before it will need to be replaced.

4. New sensor support

Windows 7 adds base-level support for all kinds of sensors, from GPS, to fingerprint readers, to ambient light meters, to accelerometers. Light sensors, for example, can now be used not only to light up a keyboard, but an application could sense daylight and make type larger so it's easier to read.

At WinHEC, Microsoft handed out 700 free sensor developer kits that included a light sensor, touch pad and accelerometer. The kit was a huge hit with the developers, prompting one of the only long queues of the show.

5. Improved battery life and playback of DVDs

Microsoft is trying to do a couple of things to make the DVD-playing experience better in Windows 7.

First and foremost, DVD movies just start playing, as opposed to bringing up a long list of options.

Second, the company has worked to adjust power settings while playing back movies, to enable better battery life.

"I'm hopeful it will have battery life equivalent to a portable DVD player," Microsoft's Jon DeVaan said in an interview. The issue is personal, he said. If Microsoft can reach its goal, he might be able to bring only a laptop on outings. "I hope to spare my back on family trips," he said.

6. Windows Biometric Framework

According to a press release from fingerprint-sensor maker AuthenTec, improved biometric support should enable a more standard way for fingerprint-management applications to work with readers in Windows 7.

"This provides ease of fingerprint-sensor integration for PC manufacturers and a more consistent user experience," AuthenTec said in its release.

7. Enhancements to Windows Media Center

Microsoft hasn't given up on its dream of having Windows gain a prominent spot in the living room and its main effort in this area -- Windows Media Center -- is back in Windows 7.

BetaNews has a look at some of the new features, including support for H.264 video, an on-screen keyboard and a better method of scrolling through large libraries.

No word on whether the new Media Center will offer the long-anticipated support for DirecTV.