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WirelessDevNet.com Press Release
Microsoft Speaks Up: Voice Command is Now Available at Retailers Nationwide
REDMOND, Wash., Aug. 11 -- Microsoft Corp.'s
(Nasdaq: MSFT) popular Voice Command software for Windows Mobile(TM)
2003-based Pocket PC and Pocket PC Phone Edition is now available to consumers
at retail outlets nationwide, marking the first time the company is offering
stand-alone Pocket PC software on store shelves. With the expanded
availability, it's now easier than ever for consumers to experience hands-free
voice interaction with their mobile device -- virtually anytime, anywhere.
Voice Command transforms Windows Mobile 2003-based Pocket PC and Pocket PC
Phone Edition into a virtual personal assistant, allowing consumers to use
their voice to access their contacts, phone, calendar, media player and more
-- with no voice training required.
"Voice Command is a great add-on to your Pocket PC or Pocket PC Phone
Edition," said Matthew Miller, reviews geek for PDAGeek.com. "The ability to
control a Pocket PC's key features with reliable voice-recognition software
significantly extends the value of the device by making it useful in a greater
variety of on-the-go scenarios."
Microsoft is responding to increased consumer demand for Voice Command,
formerly only available through online retailer Handango Inc., by offering the
software through retail partners CompUSA Inc., Circuit City Stores Inc.,
Amazon.com Inc., Fry's Electronics Inc., Micro Center, J&R Electronics Inc.
and MobilePlanet Inc., and distributors Ingram Micro Inc. and Tech Data Corp.
"We are thrilled that Voice Command has helped so many Pocket PC users
increase their productivity and enjoyment while on the go," said Todd Warren,
corporate vice president of the Devices, Services and eXperience Group at
Microsoft. "With the help of leading retailers, we continue to strive to make
it easier than ever for consumers to take advantage of the many new
experiences we're creating for Windows Mobile-based devices."
In addition to Voice Command, exciting software such as the new
Entertainment PocketPak provides an affordable way for people to enhance their
Pocket PC experience. Also available at retail, the Entertainment PocketPak
features 10 popular Pocket PC game titles perfect for in-between times while
on the go. The software pack includes blackjack, chess, "Cinco," "FreeCell,"
hearts, "Minesweeper," "Reversi," "Sink the Ships," "Space Defense" and
"Taipei."
Software Compatibility Grows
Already compatible with more than 24 Windows Mobile-based devices from
more than six manufacturers, Voice Command and Entertainment PocketPak also
provide great new ways to experience the T-Mobile- and HP-developed iPAQ h6315
Pocket PC Phone Edition. The HP iPAQ h6315 is the first handheld to combine
calling, Internet and blazing-fast Wi-Fi all in one. It's also the first to
give users the flexibility to automatically switch between built-in T-Mobile
wireless technology and to find the best-available signal wherever they go. A
complete list of Windows Mobile-compatible devices can be found at
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/devices/default.mspx .
Availability and System Requirements
Voice Command and the Entertainment PocketPak are available both online
and at retailers nationwide for the following estimated retail prices (retail
prices may vary):
Microsoft(R) Voice Command: $39.99
Microsoft Entertainment PocketPak: $29.99
The software is simple to install for consumers whose systems meet the
following minimum requirements:
Voice Command
Windows Mobile 2003 software for Pocket PC or Pocket PC Phone
Edition
Microsoft ActiveSync(R) 3.7 technology or later
PC with Microsoft Windows(R) XP, Windows 2000, Windows Millennium
Edition (Windows Me) or Windows 98 Second Edition operating system
7 MB of device memory (RAM) for 500 contacts and 100 songs
CD-ROM drive
Entertainment PocketPak
Pocket PC with Pocket PC 2000, Pocket PC 2002 or Windows Mobile
2003 software for Pocket PC with 600 KB of free RAM
PC with Pentium 90 or higher
Microsoft Windows 95 or later with Microsoft ActiveSync 3.7
installed
15 MB of available hard disk space for installation
VGA or higher-resolution monitor
Microsoft mouse or compatible pointing device for PC
Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services
and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
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