By : Erik Gruenwedel | Posted: 22 Oct 2009
egruenwedel@questex.com

Microsoft Corp. quietly added Internet-TV functionality to the Oct. 22 global launch of its new Windows 7 operating system to the Windows Media Center, the first significant PC upgrade in three years.

Inclusion of Web-TV access now can transform a PC into a home entertainment hub when connected to a digital TV — further narrowing the gap between movies and TV shows delivered from the Internet to the TV.

The new operating system also offers a streamlined user interface that makes everyday tasks easier and allows users to get the most out of computers of all styles and sizes.

Rollout of Windows 7 includes access to a variety of broadcast network TV programming and movie streams from Netflix. The online DVD rental pioneer’s popular Watch Instantly service also is available to subscribers via Xbox 360 Live.

Windows 7 programming features a variety of shows from MSNBC, CBS primetime, daytime, extras and TV classics, including full-length episodes of current TV shows, CBS classics TV shows, short clips, streams and Web originals.

Adding a digital TV tuner allows users to watch, pause and rewind live TV directly on your PC. Windows 7 also allows the PC to act as a DVR to schedule recordings of TV shows and movies.

The software also offers access to the Zune video podcast library.

Customers can purchase PCs with Windows 7 or software free upgrades online or in-store from technology retailers or at the new Microsoft Store, launching today in its first retail location in Scottsdale, Ariz., and expanded online.

 

---