Google has announced the availability of Google Desktop 5 beta, the latest version of the search engine company's desktop indexed searching utility. The big new feature of Google Desktop 5 is that it comes with a Vista-like sidebar that can be customized with extra gadgets. Developers can also create their own gadgets for people to play with.

The program comes as a small 1.8MB download, and it installs with a minimum of fuss, although it does require closing all open web browsers before proceeding with the installation. The program supports Windows 2000 SP3, Windows XP, and Windows Vista.

Ars Technica