UltimateTV
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Overview
UltimateTV was a product that was developed by Microsoft in Mountain View, California, and it was released to the public on October 26 2000. It was the company's second product to integrate a built in satellite tuner with a digital video recorder and an internet set-top box by using their WebTV service software to allow the user to connect to the internet. The following is a press release from Microsoft when it was released.Press Release
The DIRECTV receiver with UltimateTV service from Microsoft puts the viewer in control of a more enjoyable TV experience. It's the only intergated product to offer DIRECTV programming, digital video recording, interactive television and Internet access all in one complete package, and it is the only satellite receiver to allow the viewer to watch two shows on DIRECTV at the same time. Also, it can record up to 35 hours of digital-quality programming for later viewing on their own "personal lineup". The viewer can choose up to 500 hours of interactive television, respond to promotions by pressing a button on the remote and they can stay in touch with family and friends via e-mail. The Advanced Program Guide can also provide the viewer with the ability to watch and record programs up to 14 days in advance.This innovative digital video recording system can record two shows simultaneously while it maintains a full digital video and audio recording quality. The live television controls include pause, instant replay, slow motion, jump ahead, fast-forward and rewind. With the picture-in-picture feature, the viewer can watch a football game on one screen and breaking news on another.
The interactive-TV capability of UltimateTV, based on Microsoft's® TV Platform software, enables the user to find more information about a particular television program, play along with game shows, find information about a favorite television star or check on sports. Kid Friendly® technology and Surfwatch controls allow the parent to limit their children's access to both Web and television content. Integrated Internet access allow the subscriber to respond to an offer with either a button on the remote or with a quick e-mail message.
Failure in Marketplace
The UltimateTV delivered even more features than their competitors set-top boxes. It's failure in the marketplace was due to the time of its arrival. It came just after TiVo had dominated the market in the area of television recording.External links
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