Microsoft and Philips Team Up for ‘Freestyle’-Compatible Remote Control

by Alan Sheckter, SmartTV & Sound news editor

The remote control has not yet replaced the mouse, but Microsoft and Philips recently announced a cooperative effort aimed at developing a remote control for consumers who use the Windows operating system, including anticipated “Freestyle”-enabled PCs.

Philips said, at the recent Windows Hardware Engineering Conference in Seattle, that it would license its infrared (IR) remote-control protocol to manufacturers for use in Windows remote controls. In addition, Philips will be the preferred protocol provider for Freestyle-enabled PC remote controls, as well as anticipated future devices. Freestyle is a group of Microsoft technologies that present PC content via a user interface accessible by remote control. Microsoft has said that consumers can expect Freestyle availability news later this year.

Microsoft and Philips will license an IR based on Philips’ RC6 IR technology, which, the companies said, minimizes interference with other home electronic devices. Philips plans to provide Microsoft and manufacturers with designs for compatible remote controls.

Microsoft said it would embark on a logo program for the remote control and compatible products. The presence of the logo on a remote control will certify interoperability, and hopefully, give consumers predictable, intuitive wireless functionality on every Freestyle-enabled PC and consumer electronics device carrying the logo. Philips and Microsoft are also expected to explore future wireless-based control technologies such as radio frequency