Since we first mentioned Windows Vista Sideshow gadgets, we have received lots of comments from people, that they would love to see some for Media Center Sideshow gadgets. Well guess what, Stuart Thailand over at the Media Center blog found that there are some beta Windows Media Center Gadgets for download on the Microsoft Connect site.
I've been talking about this for months now over on TGB and the potential Windows SideShow holds and that this was indeed coming. Released today at long last, is Beta 1 of the Windows Media Center SideShow Gadget.
I've had a very quick look at it and done some screen shots. I need to play around with it in much more detail and do a full write up about it soon.
I've opened a new thread on TGB here to discuss this new SideShow Gadget.
Media Center Gadgets - General Information and Known Issues There are 4 Media Center gadgets: Download and install the Beta Media Center Gadgets: Click here to download. 
Note: To get this download you have to first be a member of Connect and join the beta for Windows Sideshow (you will be automatically approved). After you register the link in the Click here to download will work.
TV:
Browse TV and schedule recordings. Browse the TV program guide, view metadata on upcoming or current shows, and pick shows to watch and record (single showing or series), without interrupting the TV viewing experience. Recorded TV. Select a previously recorded program to play back, without interrupting the viewing experience on the TV.
Music:
Play Music. Browse the media library, control music playback on the PC by using the remote control device instead of the primary display, such as a TV. Play radio presets. Browse your radio presets and playback that station through your Media Center.
Pictures + Videos:
Browse the picture and video libraries. Make a selection on the remote and that picture or video will be displayed on the TV.
Now Playing:
Provides "now playing" information. The remote control device shows information about the currently playing medium, such as the track title or the time elapsed similar to the Windows Media Player SideShow gadget. Known Issues: Enabling the Gadgets on more than one SideShow device to control the Media Center PC is not supported for Beta Enabling the Gadgets for more than one user session on your PC is not supported for this Beta.
Thanks for the great find Stuart!! :)