Microsoft to Test New 'Digital Media Experiences'

Microsoft has sent an e-mail soliciting prospective beta testers to fill out a questionnaire concerning their typical use of digital media on the PC, as well as television viewing habits.

Completing out the survey qualifies individuals to participate in testing out new digital media experiences for Windows-based consumer PCs. The beta test fits the timetable for the upcoming release of Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005, code-named "Symphony."

"You have been nominated as a prospective candidate for an upcoming beta program," the e-mail reads. "The program will introduce you to a set of technologies providing new digital media experiences on Windows consumer PCs."

Testers can apply at Microsoft BetaPlace using the guest ID: "MS_Beta_2004."

The software giant recently unveiled a refresh of Media Center Edition to coincide with the holiday season. The 2004 release was recently enhanced by a new technology platform dubbed Media Center Extender. Extender allows Media Center PCs to broadcast digital media throughout the home to a variety of consumer electronics, rather than restricting the experience to PCs.

The 2005 "Symphony" update to Media Center Edition is expected to ship at the end of this year prior to the Longhorn wave of Microsoft's eHome products. The Longhorn rendition of MCE is being developed under the moniker "Slalom," according to sources.

Meanwhile, as Microsoft tinkers, the rest of the industry is latching onto the idea of the PC as a digital entertainment hub. Dell's Media Experience PCs offer customers a similar interface comparable to MCE at a slightly lower cost. Dell ships its software on top of Windows XP Home rather than the more pricey Professional Edition.

ISV SnapStream Media is also planning its own take on the concept that it calls Beyond Media. However, SnapStream has yet to formally announce any OEM partnerships.