News
Issue #2002 - 02 (January 2002)
(Updated Jan.16, 2002)

MARKET OUTLOOK & TRENDS

Microsoft's Vision of the Connected Home

Microsoft made quite a splash at the International 2002 Consumer Electronics Show as it unfolded its vision of the connected home. 

According to Microsoft, the 'connected house' is to simplify the everyday tasks and enrich leisure experiences. As expected, its vision is crammed full of new technologies and devices. 

Freestyle
The Windows eHome Division previewed new technologies code-named Freestyle that will extend Windows XP to offer consumers a new way to access their PC's digital media. With a new user interface and simple remote control, Freestyle will allow users to easily control, share and access their music, videos and photos, search for TV shows and pause and record live television using their Windows XP PC from anywhere in the room. It sounds similar to the <Moxi Box> showcased by Moxi Digital.

Mira
Making its debut at the show was Mira, the codename for a set of technologies that will facilitate communication with Windows XP-powered PCs. For example, a wireless flat panel display that connects with a PC but also can be used as a Web pad that wirelessly communicates with the PC. 

Windows CE.Net
The company announced the availability of Windows CE.Net, an operating system designed for micro- components, and software that occupies less space in smart devices such as mobile handhelds, smartphones, and mobile point-of-sale devices. Mira is based on Windows CE.Net.

Smartphone 2002
Finally, Microsoft's smartphone software is shedding its codename, Stringer, and now will be known as Microsoft Windows Powered Smartphone 2002. The smartphone platform combines the best of the PDA and mobile phone, offering personal information and email as well as Web-browsing capabilities.

For more information: http://www.microsoft.com

Mobileinfo Comments & Advisory:  Microsoft is setting its sights o the wireless SOHO market, including a licensing fee for its Stringer OS for smartphones. There is no doubt that its foray into smartphones, Mira and Freestyle (via Moxi) may face initial problems, but Microsoft's dogged perseverance to continuously upgrade and improve its software would ultimately give it a decent market share. We expect Microsoft to be an important player in future in this space. Skeptics can look at Pocket PC experience. Competition is good for the industry. 

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.  All trademarks used in this summary are the property of their respective owners.