One of the most highly-touted changes in Windows Vista is its new Windows Aero user interface, which provides high quality translucent "glass" effects, animations, and a smoother desktop experience than was possible in previous Windows versions. However, Windows Aero requires hardware-based 3D acceleration with certain performance characteristics, sucks battery life at an alarming rate, and isn't available to users with Windows Vista Home or Starter editions. To satisfy customers who are looking for the most of the benefits of the new Vista user experience but none of the sometimes-onerous requirements of Aero, Microsoft has created the Windows Vista Basic user interface. It's the standard user interface in Vista Home and Starter, and a viable alternative for any Vista users wishing to get better performance and, for mobile users, better battery life.
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