(Click here for larger image)Portable Media Centers (also called "portable media players") are intended to allow users to take digital media content from their Windows XP PCs with them, for playback wherever they go, according to Microsoft. Supported multimedia content types include digital music and videos, digitally recorded television shows, and digital photos. The
PMC software platform, based on Microsoft's Windows CE embedded OS, provides support for both Microsoft's Windows Media Series audio and video formats and for MP3. The first PMC to reach retail outlets was unveiled last month by
Creative Labs.
In addition to its built-in 20 GB hard drive, the PMC-120 boasts a 3.5-inch "vivid" color LCD screen, integrated speaker and microphone, replaceable rechargeable battery, and a unique "kickstand" that is said to support the device in a "comfortable viewing position." A TV-out connector enables displaying video and images through a TV or other display.
The player "seamlessly integrates" with Windows Media Player 10 and Auto Sync technology for fast content transfer to/from a desktop PC, according to River. It comes bundled with earphones, carrying case, USB 2.0 cable, TV out cable, installation CD, and AC adapter.
iRiver says the device also supports Microsoft's Windows Media DRM 10, enabling it to play back digitally protected Windows Media Audio and Video files. This gives users access to more than 1 million tracks of content available in Windows Media Audio format, from more than 60 online music stores, according to the company. Additionally, online movie site CinemaNow.com and Major League Baseball's MLB.com offer a variety of content for the device.
The PMC-120 (with a built-in 20 GB hard drive) is expected to be available at the iRiver
eStore and selected retail outlets beginning in November of 2004 with a suggested retail price of $499.99. A 40 GB model, the PMC-140, will follow soon.
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