With laptop sales up 37 percent(1) in 2005 and more than 30 million U.S. households expected to use VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) by 2009(2), consumers are demanding new solutions for richer communications experiences, even when they are on the go. Microsoft Hardware meets these needs with its expanded digital communications line, which consists of the Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000 (the company's first webcam designed exclusively for laptop use), the LifeCam VX-1000, and two new digital headsets -- LifeChat ZX-6000 and LifeChat LX-3000 -- all optimized for use with Windows Live Messenger, the world's largest instant messaging network(3), providing a simple and natural communications experience.

"We're bringing the best combination of hardware, software and services together to deliver superior online communications experiences," said Michael Cowan, product marketing manager for Microsoft Hardware. "These new products will enable our customers to easily take advantage of today's VoIP technology for greater social interaction."

The Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000 offers the highest-resolution video (2.0 megapixels(4)) and still photography (7.6 megapixels interpolated) on the market. This notebook webcam is uniquely designed for mobility and durability. The LifeCam's lens is fully collapsible and retracts inside the body of the webcam when not in use. The built-in unidirectional microphone offers unprecedented audio performance, rivaling even CD audio quality. For added convenience, the versatile attachment base allows for easy and secure placement on most laptop screens.

Also introduced today, the Microsoft LifeCam VX-1000 features a built-in microphone to provide better-quality video calling to accompany its brilliant video and still photography (640x480 pixels).

The entire line of Microsoft LifeCams features a unique set of features that simplify digital communications for Windows Live Messenger users, including a Windows Live Call Button to easily start a video call, seamless video control with the LifeCam Dashboard, and One-Touch Blogging to post LifeCam still photos to Windows Live Spaces.

Simple, Seamless and Natural VoIP

To meet the growing demand for easier PC calling, Microsoft is introducing two digital headsets, the LifeChat ZX-6000 and LifeChat LX-3000, to help consumers easily communicate PC-to-PC or PC-to-phone. Optimizations for Windows Live make accessing VoIP technology easier than ever. The rechargeable Microsoft LifeChat ZX-6000 is Microsoft's first wireless headset designed exclusively for the PC and features a range of up to 30 feet, noise-canceling microphone, competitively vibrant audio and unique industrial design. The LifeChat LX-3000 is a wired PC headset that offers in-line volume controls, pivotal boom microphone with 180-degree movement and a flexible 6-foot cord. Both headsets fully integrate with Windows Live Messenger to deliver clarity, comfort and convenience and feature the following key innovations:

-- Windows Live Call Button. One touch of the Windows Live Call Button allows users to see who is online and be on their way to audio chatting. It is easy to add another buddy for multibuddy calls.(5)

-- Easy audio switching. With the Call Button, users can switch from listening to music to accepting calls. Music will automatically mute when the user accepts a call; when the Call Button is pressed again at the end of the call, the music is reactivated.

-- Free worldwide buddy Internet calling. Users can get connected for free to Windows Live contacts around the world.(5)

Pricing and Availability

The Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000 will be widely available in November 2006 for an estimated retail price(6) of $99.95 (U.S.). The Microsoft LifeCam VX- 1000 will be widely available in September 2006 for an estimated retail price(6) of $29.95.

The Microsoft LifeChat products introduced today will be widely available in January 2007 for the following estimated retail prices:(6)

-- Microsoft LifeChat ZX-6000: $69.95 (U.S.)
-- Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000: $39.95(U.S.)