Microsoft Upgrades UltimateTV

Microsoft on Thursday issued a major software update to its UltimateTV service, which the company says it developed to respond to user feedback and suggestions. UltimateTV serves as an Internet-enabled digital video recorder for DirectTV, allowing subscribers to record up to 70 hours of television.

The version 3.5 update improves responsiveness of the receiver, and introduces new features such as automatic recording of programs - a feature highly touted by competitor TiVo. Subscribers also now have 30 new search options to help locate desired shows.

"We are particularly excited about delivering this service upgrade to our subscribers because many of the enhancements were developed to directly respond to their suggestions and requests," said Microsoft's general manager of TV Services, Rob Schoeben. "Our subscribers told us they wanted a faster service and more control over how they manage their personal programming lineup. With this latest upgrade, that's exactly what they have."

The 3.5 software update was transparently delivered to subscribers via the DirectTV service and will be automatically downloaded for new customers upon install. More information on UltimateTV and receivers from Sony or RCA may be found at ultimatetv.com.