Nullsoft has launched its Developer Network (NSDN Online), an online resource for third party Winamp developers. The site aims to support authors of Winamp skins and plug-ins with tutorials and software development kits. Developer forums, mailing lists, and reference manuals are not yet implemented, but are to follow shortly.

The skinning section is very informative, with a nice introduction about the history of skinning. An in depth skin tutorial explains nearly each and every skin component, starting with the different bitmap components and goes on to explain all the different configuration files. Merely a section on custom cursors is missing. Last but not least, you can read about common skinning techniques and get some tips from the pros about creating professional looking skins.

The plug-in developers section starts out with an introduction, briefly explaining the different plug-in types. A collection of SDKs can be downloaded, offering sample codes and insights as to how certain architectures work. After the completion of a plug-in, it should be compiled with a light weight installer, made possible by "PiMPing" it with Nullsoft's "Plug-in Mini Packager", also available on the site.

Winamp owes a great deal of its popularity to all the developers out there, customizing Winamp and expanding its functionality. the Nullsoft Developer Network offers the same opportunity and is open to new ideas. Take part in developing the Developer Network and send in any comments, questions, bug reports or sample codes via the online feedback form.

Nullsoft Developer Network