Windows 7: "Device Stage" and hardware productivity
Windows 7, build 7000, the beta which has been released into the wild, supports Device Stage, but finding a device which is compatible can be something else.
Running the beta in a live, library scenario - I had concerns about. What if the printer drivers won't work? What if my phone with my essay on won't connect? Did I leave the oven on this morning? Lo and behold, within a couple of minutes of using the Devices and Printers section, I was connected, I was printing, and I was on my way to a first mark.
By creating shortcuts to devices, you can easily check the progress or status of that device. You can even jack it into the taskbar for easy access when you most need it.
Although I don't have any devices compatible with Device Stage at this moment in time, every time you insert or connect your device to Windows 7, it'll recognise it perfectly. It won't be "just another phone", "just another printer" or "the same old memory card", it'll know exactly what it is and immediately bring up a customised screen, with an actual image of your phone; colour et al. Spooky, eh?
With a memory card, you'll be able to export pictures, movies, sounds and other files to exactly where you want them to go. With your camera, you can print them, send them, export them to another computer and upload them. And even with a mobile phone or device, it'll allow you to send/receive text messages, backup, synchronise - you name it.
It'll be a one stop shop for students with more devices than you can shake a stick at, and it's certainly made my life easier already.