Icrontic have a preview of Microsoft Sideshow up. This is the basis for Windows Longhorn.

Microsoft Sideshow is a program which is designed to keep the user up-to-date on important information. Not only does it keep track of emails, online contacts, news, weather and the market status but also certain things like the traffic in your area or a certain eBay auction that you've got your eye on. But what's really amazing about this software is the ability to customize it to your OWN needs.