Microsoft Corp. and XS Network, a leading provider of multimedia lifestyle marketing and broadcast distribution announced a partnership in which XS Network will showcase Microsoft's new, unreleased .Net Server Environment and the Media 9 Series Platform. XS Network has implemented .NET as the backbone to its core business -- broadcast creation and distribution based on a worldwide live-camera network. "(Microsoft's) Digital Media has the potential to redefine the possibilities for new experiences and services over the Internet, in the living room and in companies around the world," said Will Poole, vice president of the Windows� Digital Media Division at Microsoft. "Windows Media 9 Series is designed to deliver the major step forward in functionality and performance the industry needs to realize this potential."

XS Network is already using the .NET environment to broadcast its webcasts and movie previews. "This is just a sample of things to come," said Chris Carmichael, chairman of XS Network, "The partnership between XS Network and Microsoft will leverage both companies as being the pioneer in digital-quality broadcasts, with feeds available in multiple formats ranging from high-definition to Interactive Television to 3G cell phones such as the Microsoft SmartPhone." "Bill Gates has been a continued leader in technology. The .Net Media 9 Series Platform will change the architecture of the entire industry," Carmichael said. ".NET will also set precedence in the future of Interactive Television. Our camera network is positioned to play a large role in Interactive Television." Under the terms of the multifaceted partnership, both companies will share in the deployment of resources to manage the tools, consulting and support required for XS Network to maximize their ability to provide critical media services that showcase Microsoft's products.