Microsoft: A Media Company?

Filed in archive IPTV on May 27, 2005

Microsoft's approach to the mobile device market and television is a lot like the "Survivor" ethos. On the popular reality TV show, contestants are advised to "outwit," "outplay" and "outlast" their opponents. That might describe what Microsoft is doing in both television and mobile computing. I bring your attention to two developments in May.

First, on May 11th, Microsoft and Philips Electronics announced they will marry Windows with Nexperia. So what you ask?

Nexperia is a range of chips used in devices such as mobile phone handsets, DVD players, and digital television sets. Philips will extend this to include its Nexperia chips for in-car entertainment and next-generation digital TV systems later in the year, they said.

Philips will also add support for Microsoft's Windows Media Digital Rights Management 10 system in its chips for portable music and video players, the companies said in a joint statement.

Second, at the Mobile and Embedded DevCon 2005 in Las Vegas, Microsoft unveiled 'Magneto' also known as Windows Mobile 5 OS. Magneto promises to combine the Smartphone, Pocket PC, and Pocket PC Phone Edition operating systems into one platform.

A number of new features are expected as well, including improved applications such as a PowerPoint viewer and more powerful versions of Excel and Word. Further usability enhancements incorporate improved one-handed navigation and the ability to add caller ID photos. While QWERTY keyboard support, persistent storage technology, and upgraded wireless manufacturer and carrier support allow more robust advancements.

Is there any doubt that Microsoft is insuring that it will continue to prosper in a world of digital convergence? Also, is there any doubt that Microsoft sees that video is going to be a key driver in developing future markets?

Let's not forget these other television related stories involving Microsoft: