microsoft

For a while Google and Microsoft were encouraging utilities and consumer to get connected through their solutions to learn more about their energy use.  Google launched the Google PowerMeter through it iGoogle platform, Microsoft launched Microsoft Hohm and Cisco launched the Home Energy Controller gadgets and software. They all promised information at our finger tips so we can make more informed decisions on how we use our home energy. Read more »

I have read mix opinions on the recent acquisition of Skype by Microsoft, for about $8.5 billion. Some thinks it’s a waist of money and believe it could be better spent on some of Microsoft own systems and strategies.  Others said why buy Skype when they [Microsoft] already have a Lync, their own unified communication platform.  From a connected home point of view, I personally think a lot can come out of this acquisition and marriage of technologies based on the direction I see the market going. Read more »

The connected home is slowly becoming a reality for many of us and many businesses are positioning themselves to take advantage of this lucrative market. Among the many businesses is Microsoft; quietly and behind the scene they have been working on solutions, that according them we will be using in the next 3 to 15 years. These do not include the Windows operating system or Microsoft Office software but devices and software that we take around with us and appliances that we use in our homes. Read more »

Broadcom has changed the way Microsoft mediaroom clients connect to each other, with the release of its Broadcom BCM4717V system-on-a-chip (SoC) solution. Previously, users with multiple set-top box would connect them together via wire network using MoCA, Ethernet or HPNA and connect to the TV.  The BCM4717 changes this and allow you to connect wirelessly throughout the home. Read more »

Microsoft has release a new mouse, which they say is design for the mobile lifestyle. The new mouse is called the Arc Touch Mouse, and offers ergonomic flexibility: it flattens or Arc when you want it to and features Microsoft’s touch scroll technology for easy navigation.  The Arc Touch Mouse will not be available until Christmas in the US (pre-order at Amazon.com) and full availability by January 2011. The expected sale Retail price is $69.95 (US). Read more »

Samrthome announced that they were chosen as one of seven retailers to sell the Blue Line PowerCost Monitor WiFi Gateway.  The PowerCost Monitor™ and Energy Meter is a device that, when attached to a home’s electric meter, can read real-time power consumption, and when coupled with the new PowerCost Monitor™ WiFi Gateway, that information can then be relayed to the Microsoft Hohm online portal where it can be compiled and analyzed. Read more »

Microsoft has announced that Silverlight is to be embedded as a System on Chip (SoC) solution for manufacturers and developers of set-top boxes, Blu-ray disc players, internet connected TVs and other connected home devices. Microsoft said they are working with Intel and Broadcom on the new architecture and visitor to this week’s NAB Show in Las Vega will see a demo version of the technology. Read more »

IPTV operators with Motorola NBBS can now provide additional services to customers with Mediaroom certified set-top-box.  According to Motorola Home and Network Mobility, they have expanded the NBBS remote device management software platform to include Microsoft Mediaroom certified set-top-box, to enable operator to accelerate the introduction of new revenue-generating high-definition IP video experience. Read more »

PacketVideo (PV) today announced that its award-winning TwonkyMedia™ server software has successfully completed the highest standards of compatibility, reliability and performance testing to obtain the “Compatible with Windows 7” logo from Microsoft Corp. Read more »

Microsoft has released a new service called Microsoft-Hohm - beta (US only). The new service will allow users to track the amount of energy they use in their home.  Developed using web services technology the system will use smart grid data on energy use when it’s available, but even when it is not. The energy management service will work with both users and energy supply companies in an effort to reduce the amount of energy we use. Read more »