TransparentBar v0.1.5

TransparentBar v0.1.5

Introduces an optional maximized-window connector strip to bridge the transition between applications and the transparent taskbar.

What comes bundled:

• TransparentBar.exe - Native Windows host executable (x64)
• transparentbar_bridge-0.1.5.dll - Native taskbar transparency bridge
• Inno Setup Installer (TransparentBar-setup.exe) - Standard per-user installation with desktop shortcut option
• Portable ZIP Archive (TransparentBar-windows-x64.zip) - Standalone package with SHA-256 verification sums

What doesn't come bundled:

• Mandatory visual intrusions
  • The connector strip is completely optional and can be toggled on or off at any time

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New and improved MAJOR features in 0.1.5:

• Maximized-Window Connector Strip

  • Creates a soft, layered gradient strip at the top of the taskbar when a foreground window is maximized.
  • Samples the edge color of the maximized window to create a seamless aesthetic transition into the transparent bar.

• Native Tray Toggle with Registry Persistence

  • Adds a manual toggle option to the tray menu.
  • Preference is stored per-user under HKCU\Software\TransparentBar\TaskbarConnector (default enabled).

• Event-Driven Hook Integration

  • Tracks window state via SetWinEventHook (EVENT_SYSTEM_FOREGROUND, EVENT_OBJECT_LOCATIONCHANGE), updating without continuous desktop polling.

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New and improved minor features in 0.1.5 include:

• Gradient Math Verification: Added unit tests for 32-bit premultiplied alpha layout and mathematical falloff curves.
• Shell Filtering: Excludes desktop worker windows, taskbars, and core system shells from triggering the connector.

Note

This initial connector release remained visible over some fullscreen video players. Fullscreen suppression and Z-order refinements are introduced in v0.1.6.

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Downloads & Verification

• Windows installer (TransparentBar-setup.exe)
• Portable ZIP (TransparentBar-windows-x64.zip)

Full Changelog: v0.1.4...v0.1.5