CANTON, MI- (June 11, 2004) – In what must surely seem a match made in computer heaven, Alienware, the leading manufacturer of high-performance computer notebooks, desktops and professional systems has formed a partnership with Stardock, the world-wide leader in the development and distribution of software that customizes the Windows PC desktop.

Under the terms of the partnership, Alienware will pre-install Theme Manager from Stardock on all their new systems. Theme Manager allows users to change the Window’s visual style, icons, wallpapers, in short the entire appearance of the Windows desktop with just one click. Alienware users will be able to choose from a special Alienware theme, a second theme that celebrates Alienware’s new line of ALX computers and of course the default Windows XP theme. Additional new themes will be made available for Alienware fans as either free downloads or for a small fee, depending on the theme. Users will also be able to buy additional Stardock customization products.

The Alienware theme and the Alienware ALX theme are being designed by The Skins Factory. The Skins Factory has done interface design work for some of the largest companies in the world including Microsoft, Warner Bros. Pictures, Electronic Arts and many more.

Larry Kuperman, VP of Sales and Marketing at Stardock said “We are really looking forward to working with Alienware. Much like Stardock, Alienware is the acknowledged leader in their field and this relationship will be mutually beneficial. We expect to reach a whole new group of PC enthusiasts who might not otherwise be familiar with our software.”

Frank Azor, Senior Vice President at Alienware added, “Alienware has always strived to offer our customers the best variety of customization options, including their choice of distinctive cases. Through our partnership with Stardock and The Skins Factory, we are now able to offer customization options for the PC desktop as well.”

Jeff Schader, CEO of The Skins Factory Inc., said “It was a perfect convergence of three ‘like-minded’ companies. Alienware, with their innovative style, delivers to their consumer base, products that are rich in imagination, so we definitely felt the synergy when we came in to create their entire customized interface suite.”

Theme Manager has been a part of the successful marketing efforts of many companies including Nintendo, Microsoft, NVIDIA, ATI, Zippo Manufacturing Company and most recently Goodyear Tires.


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About Stardock:

Stardock Corporation is the leader in the development and sales of award-winning Windows desktop customization solutions such the Object Desktop software suite, including components such as WindowBlinds, DesktopX, IconPackager, and more. Stardock also develops best-selling computer games, including Galactic Civilizations and the Political Machine. For more information, please visit the Stardock home page at https://www.stardock.com or contact lkuperman@stardock.com.

About Alienware Corporation:

Alienware Corporation manufactures high-performance computer desktops, notebooks, and leading-edge professional systems. Alienware offers unique and award-winning products that incorporate state-of-the-art components, innovative engineering and design, and unprecedented customer service. Alienware systems are available direct within the United States and Europe. For more information, please visit www.alienware.com or call 1-800-ALIENWARE (254-3692).



Comments
on Jun 11, 2004
That sounds awesome for all involved. If only I could afford an Alienware system...... . Will the Alienware theme be available to the Wincustomize users?
on Jun 11, 2004
ITS ABOUT GOT DA'M TIME!!! This is what I felt for about 2 years when I first saw DX2 I personally am a month and a few weeks away from purchasing DX Pro to do something like this and more.


Nice to see someone getting into the joe way of thinking...





on Jun 11, 2004
I'll exactly second what Psikotik said. I do hope they release the themes as a promo to Wincustomize users...
on Jun 11, 2004
I think this is great news...just another sign of how mainstream skinning is becoming. As far as the skins go, I don't see why they would release them publicly...it becomes much more desirable if it's exlusive to Alienware computers.
on Jun 11, 2004
They should release a sreenshot or two.

This is awesome. Does anyone want to donate money to me so I can get an Alienware Comp?
on Jun 11, 2004
Sounds like a logical decision. Time to merge all sides of customisation.
on Jun 11, 2004
everybody get out their checkbook . . . or credit card!
on Jun 11, 2004
Quote...."Additional new themes will be made available for Alienware fans as either free downloads or for a small fee, depending on the theme" I'm a fan
on Jun 11, 2004
I have an alienware area 51....just got it, yet the gaming rig i built blows it away...but regardless will existing alienware owners that have the full object desktop be able to get the skins?
on Jun 12, 2004
Anyone with WindowBlinds (OEM or otherwise) will be able to purchase the premium skins.