Microsoft LifeCams are capturing memories and the Australian marketplace

Microsoft LifeCams achieve over 30 per cent value share of webcam sales within one year of launch

Sydney, Australia – 6 July, 2007 – Microsoft Australia today announced that following on from launch in August 2006, Microsoft® LifeCams represented over 30 per cent value share of webcam sales in the Australian market place 1during the key Christmas 2006 period.

Microsoft LifeCams offer users a unique way to See, Hear and Share life’s special experiences. Through the combined services of Windows Live Messenger™ and Microsoft LifeCams, Microsoft is delivering a unique video communications experience that has clearly taken the market by storm.

Microsoft LifeCams meet the growing demand for easier and more meaningful, personal connections through vibrant video and the highest still resolution on the market. This allows for greater clarity and “true to life” communications to share life’s moments with friends and family as they happen.

“It is just phenomenal that within a year of launch we have 22 per cent value share of all webcam sales and during our key seasonal period, from December 2006 to January 2007, our LifeCams had over 30 per cent value share,” said Julia Nicholls, Product Marketing Manager, Microsoft Australia. “This is testament that by partnering with Windows Live to seamlessly integrate Hardware and Software, we are able to provide a superior experience for customers that is unrivalled in the marketplace.”

“We will continue to build on this fantastic momentum and aim to offer Australians the best possible webcam experience. Since launch we have announced the availability of Microsoft’s first webcam designed exclusively for notebooks and to meet the growing demand for easier PC calling we have introduced two digital headsets, the LifeChat ZX-6000 and LifeChat LX-3000, all optimised for use with Windows Live Messenger.”

LifeCam Origination:
Consumer research2 revealed that people want to personalise how they stay connected and many would use webcams if they were easier to operate and provided better audio and video quality. To meet those needs Microsoft Hardware and Windows Live joined forces to provide webcams that include leading edge video and audio quality, opening the door for a richer digital communications experience. Microsoft LifeCams also work with other instant messenger services

Unique capabilities complement Windows Live Messenger:
Microsoft’s complete range of LifeCams includes a unique set of features that simplify digital communications for Windows Live Messenger users. These include:

    • Windows Live Call Button - Located on the top of each LifeCam, the Windows Live Call Button makes placing a video call a breeze by eliminating the usual multiple processes. Just one touch brings up the Buddy Picker, a tool that shows users their buddies’ online status. Users simply select their contact’s name and they’re are on their way to making a live video call.
    • LifeCam Dashboard – The LifeCam Dashboard is built right into the Windows Live Messenger window for easy access during video calling. It provides simple access to the controls people need most, including pan, tilt and zoom. Now users’ attention stays where it should be — on their video conversation.
    • One-touch blogging - Windows Live Spaces is one of the fastest-growing blog communities in the world with more than 50 million individual Spaces. Now, users can post High Definition LifeCam pictures directly to their Windows Live Space blog with one click from within the LifeCam window.

1Based on analysis from the GFK Group Australia 15th June 2007
22006, Microsoft internal research

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 LifeCam VX-6000: $149.95
    • Microsoft LifeCam VX-3000: $99.95
    • Microsoft LifeCam VX-1000: $59.95
    • Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000: $49.95
    • Microsoft LifeChat ZX-6000: $99.95

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

About Microsoft:
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

About Microsoft Hardware
For twenty years the Microsoft Hardware group has employed innovative engineering, cutting-edge industrial design and extensive usability testing to create products of exceptional quality and durability that enhance the software experience and strengthen the connection between consumers and their PC.


For further information please contact:
Jacquie Potter
Howorth Communications
Ph: 02 8281 3893
jacquie@howorth.com.au

Anne Flanagan
Howorth Communications
Ph: 02 8281 3802 or 0405 082 603
anne@howorth.com.au

www.microsoft.com/australia/presspass

Visit the Microsoft Australia Hardware Web site at http://www.microsoft.com/australia/mouseandkeyboard/


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