Microsoft: PCTVs running Windows will replace television

Microsoft VP Craig Mundie announced at Windows World Toyko today that PCTVs running Windows will replace television sets within a few years. Andwhen that happens, Microsoft will be ready.

Mundie said that all PCs will be television-enabled by the year 2000 andthat broadcast access would be a standard part of Memphis and Windows NT5.0.

"TVs have no choice but to move somewhat closer to PCs, while PCs have to move more toward simplicity," he said. PCs, he said, are superior to normaltelevision sets because they offer better picture quality and more "active programming" with Web-enhanced television programming.

Because PCTVs will be able to receive any type of broadcast data: cable,satellite, whatever, it "eliminates what I call the 'five remote control terminals problem'," Mundie said.

Mundie cited research showing that television viewing has decreased 15% inthe last year while leisure time at the computer has increased. Mundieexpects PCTV shipments to exceed 100 million units by the year 2000