Redmond, Wash. and Seoul, South Korea – Microsoft and Samsung Electronics said they have agreed to collaborate on consumer PCs and consumer electronics products for digital whole home networks.
According to a statement on the agreement, the two companies plan to work together to develop and market ‘a new breed of products based on Samsung hardware and Microsoft Windows software including support for Windows Media Technologies.’
The joint effort is the first strategic alliance for Microsoft’s eHome Division, a new business unit formed earlier this year with the mission of developing new technologies that bring exciting yet simplified whole-home entertainment, communications and control experiences to everyday consumers.
The alliance was billed by the companies as ‘a key step in Samsung’s strategy to become a leader in the digital electronics era.’
As part of the agreement, Samsung will support a variety of products and technology areas related to Microsoft’s desktop and embedded Windows products including Windows Media Technologies, the Microsoft .NET Platform and upcoming eHome initiatives. This includes Samsung expanding on its Windows CE investments to develop a wide range of smart digital appliances.
Samsung said it intends to develop ‘an entire ecosystem of PCs, digital devices, intelligent home appliances and services that will easily and cost-effectively transform average households into next-generation digital homes.’
