| Microsoft Introduces LifeCams |
| Written by News Editor | |
| Friday, 16 June 2006 | |
      Microsoft LifeCams, an innovative new line of webcams that dramatically
simplifies the video communications experience to let people see, hear
and share life's experiences in an extraordinary way.
Consumer research has revealed that people want to stay connected, and many would use webcams if they were easier to operate and provided better audio and video quality. To counter those frustrations, Microsoft Hardware and the Windows Live team have joined forces to introduce a line of LifeCams starting with the LifeCam VX-6000 and LifeCam VX-3000. These next-generation webcams provide groundbreaking video and audio quality that opens the door for richer digital communications experiences. Optimized for use with Windows Live(TM) Messenger, the world's largest instant messaging network,(2) LifeCams meet the growing demand for easier, more meaningful connections. Optimized for Windows Live Messenger The first two available webcams, the Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000 and Microsoft LifeCam VX-3000, bring a new dimension to Windows Live Messenger and feature exclusive industry firsts that streamline the webcam experience: * Windows Live Call Button. Located on the top of each LifeCam, the Windows Live Call Button makes placing a video call a breeze by eliminating the usual multiple steps. Just one touch brings up the Buddy Picker, a tool that shows users only current online buddies. They simply select their contact's name and they are on their way to making a video call. * LifeCam Dashboard. Built right into the Windows Live Messenger window for easy access during video calling, the LifeCam Dashboard provides simple access to the controls people need most, including pan, tilt and zoom. Now users' attention stays where it should be -- on their video conversation. * One-touch blogging. Windows Live Spaces is one of the fastest-growing blog communities in the world, with more than 50 million individual Spaces. Now, users can post High Definition LifeCam pictures directly to their Windows Live Space blog with one click from within the LifeCam window. Easy to See, Hear and Share The new Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000 is a top-of-the-line wired webcam providing the highest quality still photography on the market (5.0 megapixels interpolated), High Definition video (1.3 megapixels)(3) and 3x digital zoom. A 71-degree wide-angle lens allows enough room for up to three people to join in the conversation. The Microsoft LifeCam VX-3000 offers High Definition still photography (1.3 megapixels interpolated) and brilliant video (640x480 pixels). Both LifeCams feature a built-in acoustic noise-canceling microphone to ensure crystal-clear audio performance without adding clutter from extra headsets or external microphones. In addition, both new LifeCams come with fun Video Effects, such as falling snowflakes and twinkling stars, to personalize and enhance the background of video conversations. The LifeCams also have a Universal Attachment Base for easy and secure attachment to virtually any size monitor. Continuing its commitment to enhance digital communications experiences, Microsoft will introduce additional LifeCam products in September 2006 designed to meet the growing needs of people on the go and the expanding digital communications landscape. Pricing and Availability The new Microsoft LifeCams introduced today will be widely available in August 2006 for the following estimated retail prices:(4) * Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000: $99.95 (U.S.) * Microsoft LifeCam VX-3000: $49.95 (U.S.) LifeCams can currently be purchased on Amazon.com and will be shipped in August when the product is available. Microsoft Hardware and Windows Live will continue their commitment of providing innovative hardware and software solutions that bring experiences to life with additional digital communications products later this year. |
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