After multiple extensions, Microsoft is finally ending support for Windows XP on April 8, 2014. While recent hardware and software advancements require newer versions of Windows, many users prefer the user interface and relative simplicity of Microsoft’s nearly 12-year-old operating system. Windows XP is starting to show its age from a design perspective, however. The default “Luna” theme really looks out of date compared to more modern designs.
Thankfully, it’s easy to keep Windows XP looking fresh with themes. One of the best themes that still looks good today is “Royale,” a Microsoft-designed theme intended for Media Center and Tablet versions of XP. Here’s how to give any version of Windows XP a fresh look with the Royale Theme.
First, you’ll need to obtain the theme files. Microsoft officially only makes the theme available for specific versions of Windows but, because the theme is technically freeware, you can easily find it online. A reliable download location for the Royale theme is Softpedia.
Download and extract the theme’s zip file, then run the included installer. This installer simply places the theme files into your system’s Windows directory. Those who have used other user-created themes will recognize the process.
Once the installer is finished, head to your Windows XP desktop, right-click, and choose Properties. Under the Themes tab, click the drop-down menu and choose the new entry for “Royale.” New users should note that you can also use this location to choose “Windows Classic” for a pre-XP style theme. After you’ve made your theme selection, click “Apply” at the bottom of the window and give the system a moment to process the changes.
You’ll now notice that Windows XP has taken on a slicker, more modern, yet still familiar look. It’s amazing what a subtle change to colors can do from a design perspective.
With the Royale Theme for Windows XP, you can keep your venerable operating system looking fresh in the age of more modern designs from Microsoft and Apple. Note that switching to the Royale theme is entirely superficial; there are no under-the-hood improvements or changes to Windows. This means that you’ll still be vulnerable to the security risks inherent in the aging OS, especially after Microsoft discontinues support next year. Still, if you’re willing to stick with XP, at least the old girl will look good.
