Microsoft to partner with Crestron for next generation of Media Center

August 1, 2007 – Microsoft is to partner with US automation company Crestron to develop the next generation of its Media Center operating platform, using embedded chip technology that can be programmed to deliver a range of automation and entertainment capabilities, according to Australian news portal SmartHouse News.

The news was apparently leaked during an interview with Crestron executives, and it now appears that the two companies have spent the past 12 months developing a new Media Center standard that will involve the software being embedded into a new suite of Crestron tablet controllers.  The announcement is expected to be made officially during the CEDIA Expo in Denver in September.

The new device will offer not only portable entertainment but also home automation capabilities including distributed audio, lighting control, security and device control.  Crestron is expected to deliver several versions of the controller in addition to a Windows development kit that will enable installers and organisations targeting the home automation market to develop custom capabilities.

Randy Klein, Vice President of Crestron, commented: “We’re working with Microsoft to bring solutions into people’s homes.  Crestron and Microsoft are going to take it to a whole new level.”  A Microsoft insider has confirmed to news portal SmartHouse that the deal with Crestron will open up “massive” markets for Microsoft.

Microsoft is now expected to adapt Crestron’s RoomView.NET based resource management system, which can be used to manage both the home and corporate environments.