[GoemonHTPC]

I want to run XMBC in fullscreen after boot, but also want to have a normal linux desktop. So I wonder if it is possible to automatically start XBMC at the first virtual desktop on my HTPC (Ubuntu) and redefine a special function key of my keyboard (e.g. I have an key with a mail-icon on it) to flip between both virtual desktops.
I tried to find some solution on the web, but wasn't lucky.

Any Idea to auto start XBMC at a virtual desktop, and set a special key in XBMC and Gnome desktop for flipping the virtual desktops?

[w0lv3n]

I now you can do this, but it is more for the use of remote desktop. Bascially you create two users and log them in on startup (one would be 'XBMC' the other would be 'desktop')
Considering that your HTPC is likely attached to a TV, you may want to explore the following configuration:
HTPC loads and displays XBMC on your tv. At the same time it loads a VNC session under the name of 'desktop' which can be accessed by your favourite VNC program.

A quick search came up with this result:
http://www.abdevelopment.ca/blog/start-v...buntu-boot

Will see if I can help out more later! Good Luck!