Electrochromic oxides form the basis of "smart windows" which are able to provide energy efficiency and indoor comfort simultaneously. This paper attempts to give an introduction to "smart windows" technology, which finally seems to be ready for large-scale applications. The "whys" and "hows" are discussed from the viewpoints of materials, device technology, low-cost manufacturing aspects, and applications to buildings as well as niche products. Furthermore, there are some speculations as to the "whithers" of oxide electrochromics for applications to buildings of the future. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.