This week is CES so expect some commentary here about the latest from the world of Windows Media Center, Windows Phone and possibly so other topics of interested related to my passion about technology.
Announcement #4: Microsoft New Mantra '3 Screens & the Cloud' Getting Traction
Microsoft's new mantra of '3 Screens & the Cloud' is picking up traction with a hardened focus on Entertainment through Windows Media Center, Xbox and apparently Mediaroom 2.0. I still think they could close the loop faster with the proliferation of Windows Media Center remotes in stores (they sell Xbox remotes, why not Windows Media Center?) and closing the gap with Zune on Windows Media Center (just build a plug-un guys!) and Zune HD Phone.
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Announcement #3: Microsoft Auto 4.0
I am a Chevy man 100%, but MS Synch is making me reconsider! More to follow.
Announcement #2: Windows Phone 7
The big announcement is there will be no announcement until the MObile World Congress next month in Barcelona! They really need to build in the OS on Zune or vice versa (and build Zune integration into Windows Media Center). That would close the loop. Everyone thinks MS is out of the mobile market, but the fact is there are more Windows Phone devices than any other platform and smartphone penetration is only at 20% so there is still a lot of headroom in the market with MS holding a key advantage!
Announcement #1: Ceton Prices its Quad CableCARD Tuner!
Engadget reported that the Cetaon Quad CableCARD will be $399. If you are not using Windows Media Center (in most versions of Windows now) you should really try it. Its great fo consuming, storing and distributing media (especically via XBOX 360) in the home. If you are using Windows Media Center without a TV tuner, you are not really using it at all. Stepping up to an integrated CableCard which gets rid of the need for the IR blasters and delivers premium cable HD channels takes it to a whole new level. We just did this and its a massive step up from just ClearQAM. Now, with Ceton adding the ability to leverage one CableCARD into four tuners you shouldn't really ever have a live HD conflict in the house again!