Microsoft Corp. today announced the official name for its next-generation digital media platform, Windows Media (TM) 9 Series, formerly code-named Windows Media "Corona.". Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates will launch the public beta release of the entire Windows Media 9 Series platform in Los Angeles at the Hollywood and Highlands Complex on Wednesday, Sept. 4. Showcasing new versions of Windows Media Player, a new streaming server, new audio and video compression, a new encoder and a new software development kit, Windows Media 9 Series will offer a dramatically improved playback experience, unmatched audio and video quality, and the most complete platform for enabling a whole new range of digital media solutions.
Microsoft Corp. and Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today announced that Pioneer's upcoming Digital Network Entertainment (TM) (DNE) products will support the new Microsoft® Windows Media (TM) 9 Series, previously code-named Windows Media "Corona. The DigitaLibrary (TM), which is the first in Pioneer's line of DNE products, is scheduled to be launched later this year as the first home theater device to include playback support for Microsoft's Windows Media Video technology. The flexible design of the DigitaLibrary makes it possible to add support for the next-generation Windows Media 9 Series audio and video technology when it becomes available.