Windows XP introduces a new, richer image format for desktop icons not supported by earlier versions of Windows.
"Pre-XP" icons | |
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Limited to 256 colors. |
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Colors are tied to a fixed color palette, placing restrictions on the use of color. Colors must be pre-defined in the color palette before they can be used. Prevents the use of anti-alias and gradient effects. |
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Only two levels of transparency (completely transparent or completely opaque). |
Windows XP icons |
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Can contain any of 16 million colors (True Color). |
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Does not use a color palette. Any of 16 million colors can be applied at will. |
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8-bit "alpha" channel provides 256 levels of transparency. |