Microsoft, Nokia, and MSN Push Boundaries in Multimedia and Broadband

Microsoft has just released the beta version of Windows Media 11, which comes bundled with URGE, a new online music service that will allow users to purchase and download over 2 million tracks. URGE also offers an all-you-can-eat subscription version for $9.99 a month, which may be cheaper than rivals Rhapsody and Napster. However, it is unclear whether this subscription version will allow users to transfer music to portable devices.

The service has been in development for some time and was showcased at CES a few months ago. The interface appears to be slick, but some critics have expressed concerns about the lack of original content. URGE will not be compatible with iPods, a decision that some have criticized.

Meanwhile, Cinema Now has become one of the first Internet video providers to offer day and date releases of high-profile DVD debuts. This includes movies like "Brokeback Mountain" and "Fun with Dick and Jane." Users can rent these movies for $3.99 or purchase them for $19.95.

Buy.com has launched a new half-hour television show called BuyTV, which covers the latest in new technology. The show is shot in HD and features a chatty duo, but the quality is somewhat lacking. However, the interface is beautifully designed, making it easy to navigate.

Sony's recent announcements have led some to believe that the PlayStation Portable (PSP) has shifted its focus from gaming to multimedia. The PSP's new firmware upgrade (2.7) enhances its ability to handle more broadband content. The upgrade includes Flash Player support, allowing users to view videos and multimedia content on their PSP.

Nokia has released the Nokia N93, a mobile device that offers uncompromised digital camcorder, telephony, and rich Internet communication functionalities. The device features a 3.2-megapixel Carl Zeiss optics camera and DVD-like video capture, making it a clear leader in the field.

MSN has renewed its relationship with Mark Burnett Productions, providing exclusive online content for the second season of CBS' reality show "Rock Star." The partnership will stream behind-the-scenes episodes and exclusive content, marking a significant investment by MSN in broadband content.

Key Takeaways:

• Microsoft's URGE will offer over 2 million tracks for purchase and download, as well as an all-you-can-eat subscription service for $9.99 a month.
• URGE will not be compatible with iPods, a decision that some have criticized.
• Cinema Now has become the first Internet video provider to offer day and date releases of high-profile DVD debuts.
• Buy.com has launched a new half-hour television show called BuyTV, covering the latest in new technology.
• Sony's PSP firmware upgrade (2.7) enhances its ability to handle more broadband content.
• Nokia's Nokia N93 features a 3.2-megapixel Carl Zeiss optics camera and DVD-like video capture.
• MSN has renewed its relationship with Mark Burnett Productions, providing exclusive online content for the second season of CBS' reality show "Rock Star."

Statistics:

• Over 2 million tracks will be available for purchase and download through URGE.
• The all-you-can-eat subscription service for URGE will cost $9.99 a month.
• Cinema Now offers day and date releases of high-profile DVD debuts, including movies like "Brokeback Mountain" and "Fun with Dick and Jane."
• The PSP firmware upgrade (2.7) includes Flash Player support, allowing users to view videos and multimedia content on their device.
• Nokia's Nokia N93 features a 3.2-megapixel Carl Zeiss optics camera and DVD-like video capture.
• MSN will stream behind-the-scenes episodes and exclusive content for the second season of CBS' reality show "Rock Star."
• The Nokia N93 has a 3x optical zoom and can connect directly to a TV for a widescreen movie experience.
• The PSP firmware upgrade (2.7) also gives the device better RSS feed support.

Sources:

• UPI
• Microsoft
• MTV
• Buy.com
• Sony
• Nokia
• MSN
• Mark Burnett Productions