Microsoft Unveils XP Add-ons for MP3, DVD

Dodging accusations that it was including only rudimentary support for MP3 ripping in favor of its own WMA format, Microsoft today announced
plans to release two multimedia add-on packs for Windows XP. The first pack adds support for high quality MP3 ripping from a CD directly through Windows Media Player, as well as other enhanced features. Redmond's sudden embrace of third party plug-ins for its proprietary Media Player comes at a time when the company is attempting to settle its antitrust woes.

The second pack allows for software-based DVD playback on systems that do not have actual DVD decoders. Microsoft has partnered with Cyberlink Corp, Intervideo Inc. and RAVISENT Technologies to author the extension to Windows.
Full screen controls and support for All Media Guide's DVD metadata will be included as well.

General manager of the Windows Digital Media Division, Dave Foster stated, "Windows XP provides a great experience for MP3 users and, with the addition of the new add-on packs, it just got better. Customers now have expanded choice for both of the leading digital music formats, as well as a great selection of vendors to choose from in CyberLink, InterVideo and RAVISENT."


Until this announcement, it was assumed that the quality of MP3 encoded audio in Windows XP would be the equivalent to that of an AM radio broadcast. In contrast, Microsoft's own audio format provided high quality playback. In today's press release, the company maintains it will continue support for Fraunhofer's MP3 codec, pointing out that it has licensed the technology in Windows Media Player versions 6.4, 7.0, and 7.1.

According to Microsoft, each component will be available individually. Each company will also determine its own pricing, but the cost is expected to remain between $15 and $30 US dollars.

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