Microsoft webcams extend digital communications experiences

Sydney, Australia – 20 April, 2007 – Microsoft Australia today announced the availability of Microsoft’s first webcam designed exclusively for notebooks, the Microsoft^® LifeCam NX-6000 and two new digital headsets — LifeChat™ ZX-6000 and LifeChat LX-3000 — all optimised for use with Windows Live™ Messenger.

With notebook sales up and more and more Australians using VoIP (voice over Internet protocol), Microsoft Hardware and Windows Live™ have joined forces to provide groundbreaking video and audio quality that opens the door for richer digital communications experiences.

"We're bringing the best combination of hardware, software and services together to deliver superior online communications experiences," said Scott Jackson, Hardware Product Marketing Manager, Microsoft Australia. "These new products will enable our customers to easily take advantage of today's VoIP technology for greater social interaction, even when they’re on the go."

The Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000 offers the highest-resolution video (2.0 megapixels) 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.

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 Australians easily communicate PC-to-PC or PC-to-phone. Optimisations 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.

Pricing and Availability
The products introduced today are available now to customers through Microsoft reseller partners at the following recommended retail prices:^*

Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000: $179.95
Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000: $49.95
Microsoft LifeChat ZX-6000: $99.95

^*Prices are Australian recommended retail prices. Actual prices may vary.