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Microsoft Speaks Up: Voice Command Is Now Available at Retailers Nationwide REDMOND, Wash., Aug. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp.'s popular Voice Command software for Windows Mobile(TM) 2003-based Pocket PC and Pocket PC Phone Edition is now available to consumers at retail outlets nationwide, marking the first time the company is offering stand-alone Pocket PC software on store shelves. With the expanded availability, it's now easier than ever for consumers to experience hands-free voice interaction with their mobile device -- virtually anytime, anywhere.(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040811/SFW006-A http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040811/SFW006-B ) "Voice Command is a great add-on to your Pocket PC or Pocket PC Phone Edition," said Matthew Miller, reviews geek for PDAGeek.com. "The ability to control a Pocket PC's key features with reliable voice-recognition software significantly extends the value of the device by making it useful in a greater variety of on-the-go scenarios." Microsoft is responding to increased consumer demand for Voice Command, formerly only available through online retailer Handango Inc., by offering the software through retail partners CompUSA Inc., Circuit City Stores Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Fry's Electronics Inc., Micro Center, J&R Electronics Inc. and MobilePlanet Inc., and distributors Ingram Micro Inc. and Tech Data Corp. "We are thrilled that Voice Command has helped so many Pocket PC users increase their productivity and enjoyment while on the go," said Todd Warren, corporate vice president of the Devices, Services and eXperience Group at Microsoft. "With the help of leading retailers, we continue to strive to make it easier than ever for consumers to take advantage of the many new experiences we're creating for Windows Mobile-based devices." In addition to Voice Command, exciting software such as the new Entertainment PocketPak provides an affordable way for people to enhance their Pocket PC experience. Also available at retail, the Entertainment PocketPak features 10 popular Pocket PC game titles perfect for in-between times while on the go. The software pack includes blackjack, chess, "Cinco," "FreeCell," hearts, "Minesweeper," "Reversi," "Sink the Ships," "Space Defense" and "Taipei." Software Compatibility Grows Already compatible with more than 24 Windows Mobile-based devices from more than six manufacturers, Voice Command and Entertainment PocketPak also provide great new ways to experience the T-Mobile- and HP-developed iPAQ h6315 Pocket PC Phone Edition. The HP iPAQ h6315 is the first handheld to combine calling, Internet and blazing-fast Wi-Fi all in one. It's also the first to give users the flexibility to automatically switch between built-in T-Mobile wireless technology and to find the best-available signal wherever they go. A complete list of Windows Mobile-compatible devices can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/devices/default.mspx . Availability and System Requirements Voice Command and the Entertainment PocketPak are available both online and at retailers nationwide for the following estimated retail prices (retail prices may vary): -- Microsoft(R) Voice Command: $39.99 -- Microsoft Entertainment PocketPak: $29.99 The software is simple to install for consumers whose systems meet the following minimum requirements: -- Voice Command -- Windows Mobile 2003 software for Pocket PC or Pocket PC Phone Edition -- Microsoft ActiveSync(R) 3.7 technology or later -- PC with Microsoft Windows(R) XP, Windows 2000, Windows Millennium Edition (Windows Me) or Windows 98 Second Edition operating system -- 7 MB of device memory (RAM) for 500 contacts and 100 songs CD-ROM drive -- Entertainment PocketPak -- Pocket PC with Pocket PC 2000, Pocket PC 2002 or Windows Mobile 2003 software for Pocket PC with 600 KB of free RAM -- PC with Pentium 90 or higher -- Microsoft Windows 95 or later with Microsoft ActiveSync 3.7 installed -- 15 MB of available hard disk space for installation -- VGA or higher-resolution monitor -- Microsoft mouse or compatible pointing device for PC Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. NOTE: Microsoft, Windows Mobile, ActiveSync and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries. The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040811/SFW006-Ahttp://www.newscom.com/cgi- bin/prnh/20040811/SFW006-Bhttp://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGOA P Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/PRN Photo Desk, [email protected] Microsoft Corp. CONTACT: Kristin Mattison, +1-206-223-1606, [email protected], or Jim Bak, +1-206-223-1606, [email protected], both of Edelman for Microsoft Corp. Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/ |