Plans for Windows Vista, Xbox 360, digital music devices, mobile operating systems… announced by the world’s leading software company president Bill Gates at the 2006 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) showcase Microsoft’s readiness for every “front.”
As usual, Microsoft’s chief architect began his speech with predictions about the digital outlook. Gates envisioned his future life: starting a new day by watching on-demand video clips, then checking a map to see where his family members are. Upon arriving at the office, he would use three large flat screens to organize a video meeting. Finally, at the airport lounge, his mobile phone would connect to a nearby screen, immediately giving him a full desktop system to handle his work. The phone could also pick up signals from nearby cameras.
Windows Vista ‘Accessible’
After several months of showcasing the advanced and standout features of Vista, Bill Gates presented some “life-friendly” characteristics of the new generation Windows version. Among these is Flip 3D with new graphic capabilities and the Windows Vista Sidebar, which operates at the corner of the screen, featuring RSS feeds, sports scores, and various other small applications. Microsoft demonstrated the Sidebar right from the first preview of Longhorn (the codename for Vista).
The Photo Gallery photo editing program helps users perform basic photo editing steps while categorizing files by date, keywords, and other information. This integrated software in Vista is similar to Apple’s iPhoto. Like iPhoto, Photo Gallery will save a separate copy, allowing users to modify photos without fear of losing the original. The new slideshow feature allows mixing between animated and static images.
Microsoft also announced an update to the Flight Simulator program to showcase Vista’s graphic power. The demo included helicopters, flying birds, and many other vibrant details.
HD DVD External Drive for Xbox
The Microsoft president revealed plans to produce an external drive compatible with HD DVD technology, working with the recently released Xbox 360 gaming console. The software company hopes to attract a significant customer base by offering a budget-friendly option rather than requiring the purchase of a completely new device to watch Blu-ray or HD DVD discs.
Microsoft also plans to launch 50 high-definition games in the market by June. They demonstrated HD gaming capabilities through the Fight Night Round 3 version from Electronics Arts, where Bill Gates played Muhammad Ali while CEO Steve Ballmer took on the role of Joe Frazier.
Gates quickly delivered a series of punches while Frazier started somewhat clumsily. “I’ve been ‘training’ for 30 years for this opportunity,” Ballmer said. Showcasing some impressive footwork, Gates was hit by Frazier. “You will receive a gift that matches your efforts,” Gates quipped before promptly knocking out Ballmer.
Microsoft stated that they would collaborate with third-party manufacturer Celestica to build Xbox 360. This company is determined to meet its goal of shipping 4.5 – 5.5 million new generation gaming consoles by the end of June this year.
New Partnerships
Microsoft has partnered with DirecTV, allowing satellite TV subscribers to stream programs from the set-top box to Windows computers, Xbox 360, and mobile devices as part of Microsoft’s “Play For Sure” initiative.
They also introduced the new Palm Treo 700w device, which uses the Windows Mobile operating system. The product will operate on Verizon’s network in the U.S., starting this week.
Microsoft simultaneously unveiled two extension phones capable of downloading contact information stored in Windows Live Messenger, the successor to the MSN Messenger instant messaging system. Additionally, the device can make traditional and VoIP calls.
Competing with Apple
Alongside PCs, Microsoft clearly intends to “muscle in” on the portable music and video device market dominated by Apple. Bill Gates, along with pop star Justin Timberlake and Van Toffler, MTV Music’s Director, launched the Urge music service using Microsoft technology and a range of multifunctional “mobile audio-visual” devices.
Timberlake claimed that Urge would help him connect with fans in a completely different way. He jokingly suggested he would sing with Bill Gates on an upcoming album.
Microsoft also hopes to provide higher quality music playback with the release of Windows Media Player 11 alongside Windows Vista.
Hai Nguyen
