La-Z-Boy, Microsoft Launch 'E-Cliner' Armchair
Tuesday January 9 6:21 PM ET
dailynews.yahoo.com
SEATTLE (Reuters) - Luxury armchair maker La-Z-Boy Inc. (NYSE:LZB - news) and software giant Microsoft Corp. (NasdaqNM:MSFT - news) on Tuesday officially launched a living room throne for the Internet age, complete with computer jacks and equipment for surfing the Web on a television set.
Dubbed the ``Explorer,'' the seat comes with a Microsoft WebTV receiver, wireless keyboard and two free months of the service, which enables Internet surfing, e-mail and interactive programs on a regular TV.
``We've developed the most technologically advanced recliner to date and have created a way for every customer to be comfortable with interactive television, e-mail and the Internet,'' Kevin Wixted, La-Z-Boy director of marketing, said in a statement.
The chair, hailed by the companies as the world's first ''e-cliner,'' is fitted with an electrical plug for a laptop computer and jacks for regular dial-up and high-speed digital subscriber line, or DSL, Internet connections.
A fold-out tray can hold the WebTV keyboard or a laptop.
Of course, good old-fashioned amenities like a drink holder and storage space for the TV remote control and TV guide are standard, too.
``Our relationship with La-Z-Boy underscores our strategy to provide new ways to enrich the entertainment and information value of television by making it easy and comfortable for people,'' Eric Estroff, director of channel marketing for WebTV Networks, said in a statement.
``What could be more comfortable than a La-Z-Boy recliner?'' Estroff asked.
The armchair, which was unveiled at a home furnishings show last April, is now in stores and carries a price tag of $1,049 for the fabric version and $1,299 for leather/vinyl. |
