Microsoft Introduces PlayReady Technology for Streaming Media

Microsoft introduced its "PlayReady" multimedia content access technology optimized to meet the needs of mobile operators and handset manufacturers for digital entertainment and commerce. The technology, which supports multiple content types and flexible DRM, is position for content services including subscription, rental, pay-per-view, preview and super-distribution.



Content types supported include music, video, games, ring tones and images. Audio/video formats supported include Windows Media Audio (WMA), AAC/AAC+/HE-AAC, Windows Media Video (WMV), and H.264. Microsoft PlayReady enhancements make it easier for consumers to move their content between their devices, giving them a new level of freedom with their digital content. It is designed to be fully backward compatible with Windows Media DRM 10.



PlayReady is slated for implementation in handsets and mobile devices during the first half of 2007.



Microsoft said it had indications that Telefonica, O2, Verizon Wireless, Bouygues Telecom, and Cingular Wireless would be among the early implementers of PlayReady technology.

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