Microsoft Corp. and Sigma Designs Inc. announced today at IBC2005 the availability of a new class of system-on-chip (SOC) that will enable the production of low-cost, high-definition-capable devices optimized for the Microsoft TV Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) Edition software platform. The new SMP8634 media processor from Sigma Designs will enable set-top box and consumer electronics manufacturers to create a range of products for broadband service providers to deliver IPTV services to the home.

Microsoft and Sigma Designs have worked closely together to extend the processing functionality of Sigma Designs' open standards-based SMP8634 media processor to achieve a feature set that delivers the full power of the Microsoft TV platform. This innovative SOC is capable of delivering multiple channels of high-definition (HD) video and on-screen graphics, powerful multimedia processing, powerful content security, and support for a full range of peripherals such as USB 2.0, IDE, Ethernet and HDMI. Support for the VC-1 and H.264 (MPEG-4) video codecs is also built in, further reducing costs for set-top box manufacturers.

The SOC can be embedded inside a range of consumer electronic devices to enable consumers to choose from a variety of IPTV-ready receivers such as TV sets, set-top boxes, digital video disc players and gaming consoles. These offerings create more "on ramps" to the connected digital home, enabling great stand-alone IPTV experiences that are ultimately "better together" when connected to other compatible devices and services.

"Platforms based on Sigma's SMP8634 and Microsoft IPTV Edition offer the dual benefit of achieving a dramatically new user experience and significantly lowering the cost of IPTV-ready receivers," said Ken Lowe, vice president of strategic marketing at Sigma Designs. "Ultimately, high-definition content will help come alive for consumers as a clearly differentiated service."

"Our collaboration with Sigma is a great example of driving innovation in the IPTV industry that will ultimately enable an exciting world of next-generation TV and connected-entertainment experiences that consumers do not enjoy with today's legacy TV offerings," said Phil Corman, director of Worldwide Partner Development for the Microsoft TV Division. "The combination of Sigma's new SOC and the Microsoft TV IPTV Edition software platform will bring significant benefits to set-top manufacturers, IPTV service providers and consumers alike."