Microsoft and partners launch plans for new “Extenders for Windows Media Center — devices that enable access to premium cable, high-definition TV, popular video formats including DivX, music, paid movies, photos and more from any TV in the house, with a wired or wireless network connection. These new devices, which are expected to ship in time for the holiday shopping season, include:
- The Media Center Extender with DVD Player (DMA2200) from Linksys. It combines an upscaling DVD player with a dual-band Wireless-N Extender for Windows Media Center. For consumers seeking a smaller form factor, Linksys will also offer the Media Center Extender (DMA2100), which delivers all the appealing features of Extender for Windows Media Center in a compact dual-band Wireless-N solution.
- The D-Link DSM-750 MediaLounge HD Media Center Extender — which connects to the home network using Ethernet or dual-band draft Wireless-N networking. The DSM-750 supports HD videos with resolutions of up to 1080i; supports Windows Media Video (WMV), DivX, and XVid formats; and includes a USB 2.0 port for access to music, photos and videos stored on removable USB flash drives or hard drives.
- The HP MediaSmart LCD HDTV, currently available in 42-inch and 47-inch sizes, will support Extender for Windows Media Center technology through an optional software download, expected to be available in early 2008. The MediaSmart TVs support 1080p video, 802.11n wireless, and DivX, XVid, WMV and other video formats.
Microsoft also launched a beta test of Windows Media Center Internet TV, which will offer more than 100 hours of ad-supported entertainment from MSN(R) Video, including full-length shows, music concerts and movie trailers.
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