HP adds MS Media Center Extender to HDTVs

HP has given a significant boost to its MediaSmart LCD TVs with the introduction of Microsoft Media Centre Extender capability. HP is the first company to add the capability to its Internet-connected TVs.

Microsoft’s extender for Windows Media Centre allows digital media on PCs running Windows Vista Home Premium or Ultimate operating systems, and online content such as on-demand TV, to be shown on a big screen high-definition TV.

HP MediaSmart TVs provide 1080p resolution, three HDMI ports and advanced wireless technology to connect with PCs, laptops and other electronic devices.

HP’s forthcoming digital media receiver will also feature the Extender for Windows Window Media Centre, and will be called ‘MediaSmart Connect’. The receiver will turn any HDTV into a ‘MediaSmart’ one.

The MediaSmart interface provides users with access to CinemaNow and other movie services, Snapfish’s photo service and Internet radio stations from Live365.

Windows Media Center also features the Internet TV Beta, providing over 100 hours of video from MSN.