Philips to Test Streamium Broadband Jukebox

Philips Audio today unveiled a new addition to its line of uniquely designed digital audio players, the Streamium MC-i 200. The new micro hi-fi system builds upon the larger FW-i1000's Internet connectivity to add full support for streaming audio. The MC-i 200 connects to current Internet radio stations, as well as premium subscription services being rolled out by companies such as MusicNet and Pressplay.

And to kick off the new year, Philips will be selecting 100 beta testers to evaluate the Streamium before it launches later this year.

The Streamium MC-i 200 transparently connects to current home networks using DHCP, and will even playback MP3 files shared by other computers in a LAN. "Philips is opening up the Internet to offer far more than just a PC-based browsing experience, as it increasingly becomes and always-on broadband medium," said Mike Mastroyiannis, Executive Vice-President and General Manager, Philips Audio.

The boombox-sized Streamium sports a MP3-compatible CD player and FM/AM tuner which can be accessed using a jog dial and 5-line LCD display. Most importantly, the MC-i 200 is upgradeable - users can download patches and firmware updates via the Internet.

Philips will be accepting beta test applications for the MC-i 200 until 6:00 p.m. PST on Sunday, February 17. The test is open to all applicants 12 years and older. 100 winners will be notified by February 24, and are required to sample for 8 weeks and complete two on-line questionnaires. To apply, visit audio.philips.com and complete the short beta registration. Multiple submissions will result in disqualification.