Philips Tests Streamium MC-i250
Philips is seeking 50 volunteers to beta test its new Streamium MC-i250 broadband jukebox. Building on its first generation Streamium MC-i200 player, which entered beta testing one year ago, the MC-i250 adds wireless Internet capabilities using 802.11b.
The new Streamium MC-i250 can access a variety of online music, including streaming radio, as well as music stored on networked computers. Users will be able to access premium and free music services offered by MusicMatch, Radio Free Virgin, MP3.com, Yahoo! LAUNCH, Andante, and Live365.
"With our Streamium concept, Philips is heralding a new and unique personal experience in music enjoyment," says Jean-Marc Matteini, general manager at Philips Consumer Electronics. "The addition of wireless connectivity in the new MC-i250 extends that experience further by offering consumers the freedom to choose where in the home they listen to their streamed music content."
The MC-i250 can play MP3 and MP3Pro audio formats on CD-R/CD-RW discs, and includes an AM/FM tuner. It can also be upgraded with the latest software technology, a feature Philips touts across many of its Internet audio products.
The beta test is open to everyone older than 12 years of age, and testers will be required to use the product for eight weeks and complete two on-line questionnaires. Applications to join the beta will be accepted until February 16, 2003. Chosen testers will be notified via e-mail within 7 days after drawing.
The Streamium MC-i250 will hit store shelves in March and retail for $399 USD.