"Skins" are the latest craze in graphics customization. More and more utilities are using the technology, and people seem to just love them. Typically, skins are used to apply a custom graphic theme to the graphical interface of an application. For instance, there are some MP3 players that use skins. Zip Up The Web is another tool that comes with custom skins. Play, Inc.'s software comes with different skins, too. For these types of uses, skins are nothing more than a diversion or quirky collectible. But now Hotbar technology has raised the notch by allowing you to apply skins to your Internet Explorer browser control panel. Still, think this is just a novelty? Think again, Sherlock.

What space is more valuable than any other for advertising? Sure banner ads can be effective, but they only have your attention for a few seconds before you move on. And the proliferation of "viewbar" technologies like AllAdvantage are clever, but many deem them to be a total pain in the ass. Now imagine skins that contain your web site domain and logo embedded into the browser control panel's of your surfers. And the more niche' driven your site is, and the cooler your graphics, everyone will want to "brand" their browser with your skin.

Not convinced that this is the next big break in advertising? Try it out right now. Click on the Hotbar box below and it will automatically download and install the Hotbar plug-in into your browser. Note: you must be using IE 4.0 or higher for this to work at this time (1/2000).

Once the Hotbar plug-in is loaded, you'll be able to "brand" your browser with any of the following skins. Once a graphic gets old, simply "clear" your skin to reset it back to boring, drab gray, or simply choose another one. And if the mood strikes you, it is equally easy to create your own skins. No special tools or skills required. Hotbar has raised the notch on banner advertising by allowing companies to embed their ad within the browser. Branding has never been more fun!

We guarantee, you'll be hooked in minutes.