Here's the Network Computer/Acer deal. Who gets to set the specs for this set top?
Network Computer Beats Out Microsoft For Set Top Deal
SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Network Computer Inc. said Thursday that it beat archrival
Microsoft Corp. (MSFT - news) for a deal to provide television set-top box software to Belgium's
telephone company, Belgacom, for its new CyberTV service.
The contract will put Network Computer's software in set- top boxes that will be made available to
Belgacom's 4.7 million customers. The new Belgacom service will go on sale in January. Financial
terms were not disclosed.
Network Computer, owned by database software giant Oracle Corp. (ORCL - news) and Internet
browser company Netscape Communications Corp. (NSCP - news) , said its TV Navigator and
Custom Connect Server software will let Belgacom create, customize and manage their new
CyberTV service.
Closely held Network Computer also said the set-top boxes, which will be made by personal
computer maker Acer Inc., will use so-called smart cards to let customers manage their financial
accounts, pay bills and transfer funds.
Network Computer is the brainchild of Oracle Corp. Chairman Larry Ellison, who has long touted
the concept of the network computer, a stripped-down PC that relies on powerful computer servers
for its data and software programs.
In recent months, Network Computer has focused more on getting its software in the set-top boxes,
devices that let consumers surf the Web, pay bills and do e-mail through their televisions.
Network Computer also sells it network computer software and the devices themselves to corporate
customers.
Redwood Shores, Calif.-based Network Computer will be announcing more set-top box deals in
Europe in the coming months, Randy Brasche, a Network Computer spokesman, said. |
