“With its ultra-compact design and built-in clip, the new iPod shuffle is the most wearable iPod ever,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPod Product Marketing. “ The new iPod shuffle completes our all-new lineup of iPods for this holiday season and beyond, and we hope it's going to be a huge hit.”

The new iPod shuffle features up to 12 hours of battery life* and is based on Apple’s pioneering shuffle feature which lets music fans serve up a continuous mix of their favorite songs anywhere they go. Users can enjoy their songs in a random order or simply flip a switch to listen to their songs in order, such as when listening to a new album.

Users connect the new iPod shuffle to their Mac® or PC with the included dock, and iTunes’ innovative AutoFill feature automatically syncs the perfect number of songs from their music library. Seamless integration with iTunes® 7 and the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com) allows customers to choose from a selection of over 3.5 million songs from the world’s most popular digital music store.

With Apple’s legendary ease of use, pioneering features such as integrated podcasting support, iMix playlist sharing, seamless integration with iPod and groundbreaking personal use rights, the iTunes Store is the best way for Mac and PC users to legally discover, purchase and download music and video online.

Pricing & Availability
The new iPod shuffle will be available beginning this Friday through Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers for $79 (US). Customers can order the iPod shuffle through the Apple Store (www.apple.com). iPod shuffle includes earbud headphones and an iPod shuffle dock.

iPod shuffle requires a Mac with a USB 2.0 port and Mac OS® X version 10.3.9 or later and iTunes 7.0.2 or later; or a Windows PC with a USB 2.0 port and Windows 2000 (Service Pack 4), Windows XP Home or Professional (Service Pack 2) and iTunes 7.0.2 or later. Internet access is required and a broadband connection is recommended.

* Battery life and number of charge cycles vary by use and settings. See www.apple.com/batteries for more information. Music capacity is based on four minutes per song and 128-Kbps AAC encoding; actual capacity varies by content.

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning desktop and notebook computers, OS X operating system, and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital music revolution with its iPod portable music players and iTunes online music store.

The TX-8522 delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms. In addition to a built-in AM/FM tuner, the receiver also features a rear panel XM Connect-and-Play port, allowing users to connect an XM Passport portable antenna to receive their XM Satellite Radio subscription directly through their home entertainment system. For easy integration with existing home theater components, it includes three audio inputs, two video inputs, a phono input, and two A/V outputs. Multi-room and multi-source capability further expands options by allowing one person to enjoy music in the living room while another listens to news in the kitchen. The TX-8522 is currently available in black at a suggested retail price of $349.

The TX-8222 delivers 50 watts per channel into 8 ohm loads, and features three audio inputs, a phono preamplified input, and two audio outputs. It also includes two RI pin jacks, banana plug-compatible speaker posts, and selective tone control. The TX-8222 is currently available in black finish at a suggested retail price of $249.

Onkyo, which takes its name from the Japanese "On" meaning 'sound' and "Kyo" meaning 'harmony,' has been producing precision audio components for over a half-century. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit www.onkyousa.com

EchoStar Communications Corporation and its DISH Network(TM) satellite TV service announced the roll-out of four new high-definition channels - HGTV HD, NFL Network HD, National Geographic Channel HD and Starz HDTV - bringing its total HD channel lineup to 29 channels - the most national HD channels offered by any pay-TV provider in the United States. In addition, EchoStar announced a price reduction on its MPEG-4 receivers and a bonus offer for its DishHD(TM) programming packages.

Customers who subscribe to DishHD Bronze or higher will now have access to both HGTV HD and NFL Network HD. HGTV HD, which is exclusively broadcast by DISH Network, offers in-depth home and lifestyle programming, including shows on gardening, home remodeling and interior design. NFL Network HD brings viewers a 24-hour simulcast of NFL Network's programming, including 168 game telecasts a year, news, press conferences, event coverage, and reality and historical series from the sport of football.

"DISH Network continues to offer the largest HD lineup in the U.S. with 29 channels," said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network. "That's nearly three times the amount of HD channels the average cable provider offers."

DISH Network also introduces the National Geographic Channel HD, available to subscribers of DishHD Gold or higher. The channel will be available to all DishHD customers in a free preview on Ch. 9429 until July 7, 2006. National Geographic Channel HD brings the network's spectacular imagery to viewers in stunning clarity with all the innovative original programming and signature specials, ranging in topics from science and nature to technology and culture, that viewers have come to expect from the National Geographic Channel.

DishHD customers who subscribe to the Starz Movie Pack or DishHD Platinum will now get Starz HDTV, featuring films from Hollywood studios such as Walt Disney Pictures, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Pictures, Columbia Pictures, Miramax Films, Sony Pictures Classics, Revolution Studios, Samuel Goldwyn Films, Dimension Films and Screen Gems among other leading distributors.

DISH Network is now offering a free equipment upgrade to customers leasing its standard HD receiver. In addition, the up-front lease fee for DISH Network's HD digital video recorder satellite TV receiver has been reduced to $199.99, down from $299.99.

New customers can also save $200 if they subscribe to DishHD Bronze or higher through DISH Network's HD Bonus promotion combined with its current $100 Back offer. To take advantage of the HD Bonus promotion, new customers must submit a redemption form with their first bill to receive the benefits, which in turn provides a $20 credit on each subsequent bill for 10 months. Both the discounted lease upgrade fees and the HD Bonus will run through Jan. 31, 2007.

For more information about DishHD programming packages, DISH Network's HD receivers or current HD promotions, click here.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation serves more than 12.2 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. Visit www.buymydish.com

"EchoStar is pleased to not only be able to provide a high-speed Internet solution to our DISH Network customers, but also give our retailers another quality product to sell to their customers who live in rural areas," said Jim DeFranco, executive vice president at EchoStar.

DISH Network will begin offering its high-speed Internet service by this fall, and will handle all customer acquisition, installation, customer care and billing operations; WildBlue will oversee the satellite and backbone connectivity. DISH Network pricing for its high-speed Internet offering will be announced later this year.

"Our agreement with EchoStar marks an exciting time at WildBlue," said David Leonard, WildBlue's Chief Executive Officer. "We have worked very hard this year to make our affordable broadband Internet service available to every home and small business across the continental U.S., and we are very pleased to be working with EchoStar to further strengthen our presence nationwide."

With DISH High-Speed Internet, Powered by WildBlue, customers will be able to have access speeds up to 30 times faster than dial-up. The two-way satellite service provides an always-on, high-speed data connection. DISH Network customers will need to purchase a separate WildBlue satellite dish to receive the broadband service; however they do not need an additional phone or cable line.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 12.2 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at www.buymydish.com

About WildBlue

WildBlue Communications, Inc. was established to provide broadband access to consumers and small offices in rural areas and small cities. Service is available in the contiguous United States. More information on the company is available at www.wildblue.com.

The TX-SR504 is an XM-Ready home theater receiver, allowing consumers to subscribe to and receive 150 channels of commercial-free music, news, talk, and entertainment programming with the addition of any of the widely available XM Connect-and-Play antennas. It is one of the first home theater receivers to include Neural Surround decoding, which is capable of reproducing Neural-encoded XM broadcasts in discrete 5.1-channel surround sound. The unit also includes a high quality terrestrial radio tuner and features 40 presets for AM, FM, or XM stations.

The TX-SR504 includes color-coded 7.1-channel multi-channel inputs, making it ready for the new generation of Dolby Digital Plus source devices, such as HD-DVD and Blu-Ray video players. It boasts wide bandwidth component video switching with three inputs to switch up to three high definition and progressive-scan sources without degrading video quality. There are three A/V inputs with both composite and S-Video connections, plus a front panel A/V input for convenient connection of portable devices. The receiver has four assignable digital audio inputs with one coaxial and three optical connectors, RCA line-level connections for a CD player and audio recorder, and a subwoofer preamplifier output.

The TX-SR504 features a full suite of processing for home theater, including Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, and even DTS 96/24. With DTS Neo:6 and Dolby ProLogic IIx, the receiver is capable of automatically deriving full 7.1-channel audio from absolutely any stereo or multichannel source. The receiver features high quality linear PCM 192 kHz/24-bit D/A converters and a sophisticated 32-bit DSP engine for ideal reproduction of soundtracks and multichannel audio.

The Onkyo TX-SR504 includes seven internal power amplifier channels with high-current, low-impedance discrete output devices, to deliver a continuous power output of 75 Watts per channel into 8-Ohm loads. Onkyo's WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) gives the power stage a linear frequency response from 10 Hz to 100 kHz to ensure it’s up to the challenge of the most demanding audio sources. There are dual banana-plug-compatible multi-way speaker binding posts for all main channels with color-coding for simplified wiring, as well as front channel "B" terminals to enable the receiver to drive a stereo pair in a second zone.

The dot-matrix fluorescent front panel display makes setup and operation of the receiver easy and fast, including variable speaker configuration and distance settings for simple optimization of any speaker arrangement. With the new adjustable crossover on the subwoofer pre-out channel, the LFE channel signal can be cutoff at 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150 or 200 Hz, for seamless integration of any satellite and subwoofer combination.

TX-SR 304 5.1-channel receiver

Onkyo is also shipping the 5.1-channel TX-SR304 A/V receiver, a 65 Watt per channel budget receiver with a broad array of features including HDTV-capable switching for up to 3 component video sources, three assignable digital audio inputs, and processing for Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby ProLogic II. It features four A/V inputs with both composite and S-video capability, and includes the same 192kHz/24-bit DACs and adjustable crossover capacity found in the TX-SR504. The TX-SR304 is available in silver finish only at a suggested retail price of just $200.

Onkyo, which takes its name from the Japanese "On" meaning 'sound' and "Kyo" meaning 'harmony,' has been producing precision audio components for over a half-century. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit www.onkyousa.com or call 800-229-1687.

“Apple has no desire or plan to sell or support Windows, but many customers have expressed their interest to run Windows on Apple’s superior hardware now that we use Intel processors,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “We think Boot Camp makes the Mac even more appealing to Windows users considering making the switch.”

Boot Camp simplifies Windows installation on an Intel-based Mac by providing a simple graphical step-by-step assistant application to dynamically create a second partition on the hard drive for Windows, to burn a CD with all the necessary Windows drivers, and to install Windows from a Windows XP installation CD. After installation is complete, users can choose to run either Mac OS X or Windows when they restart their computer.

Pricing & Availability
The public beta of Boot Camp is available immediately as a download at www.apple.com/macosx/bootcamp, and is preview software licensed for use on a trial basis for a limited time. The final version of Boot Camp will be available as a feature in the upcoming Mac OS X version 10.5 “Leopard.” Apple does not provide support for installing or running Boot Camp and does not sell or support Microsoft Windows software. Apple welcomes user feedback on Boot Camp at bootcamp@apple.com.

System Requirements
Boot Camp requires an Intel-based Mac with a USB keyboard and mouse, or a built-in keyboard and TrackPad; Mac OS X version 10.4.6 or later; the latest firmware update; at least 10GB of free space on the startup disk; a blank recordable CD or DVD; and single-disc version of Windows XP Home Edition or Professional with Service Pack 2 or later.

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning desktop and notebook computers, OS X operating system, and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital music revolution with its iPod portable music players and iTunes online music store.

The minor bit of good news is that, I see that the people at engadget are estimating the price may actually be a bit lower in the us. Cross your fingers and start hoping it's true. But even than, it's still a bit steep.

EchoStar Communications Corporation and its DISH Network(TM) satellite TV service announced today it will launch local high-definition TV channels via its satellite TV service to customers in Denver and its 61 surrounding counties. The following local TV channels will be available: ABC Ch. 7 (KMGH), CBS Ch. 4 (KCNC) and FOX Ch. 31 (KDVR).
This is the first time HD local channels are available by satellite TV in the Denver area, providing an alternative to local cable service. The NBC Ch. 9 (KUSA) affiliate is available in standard definition but is not yet available in high definition.

DishHD(TM) packages offer customers more than 1,700 hours of HD programming every week across its more than 25 available channels which include HD local broadcasts. For only $49.99 a month, customers can access the entire DishHD lineup plus get more than 70 all-digital standard definition channels. Local channels in both high definition and standard definition can be added for just $5 a month. Cable companies, with a national average of just 10 HD channels, cannot come close to the robust lineup of DishHD.

DISH Network offers local channels via satellite to Denver area customers in the following 47 Colorado counties including: Adams, Alamosa, Arapahoe, Archuleta, Boulder, Chaffee, Cheyenne, Clear Creek, Conejos, Costilla, Delta, Denver, Dolores, Douglas, Eagle, Elbert, Garfield, Gilpin, Grand, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Jackson, Jefferson, Kit Carson, Lake, Larimer, Lincoln, Logan, Mineral, Moffat, Morgan, Ouray, Park, Phillips, Pitkin, Prowers, Rio Blanco, Rio Grande, Routt, Saguache, San Juan, San Miguel, Sedgwick, Summit, Washington, Weld and Yuma.

In addition, DISH Network will deliver HD locals in the following nine Nebraska counties: Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Hooker, Keith and Kimball, plus the following six Wyoming counties: Albany, Campbell, Carbon, Johnson, Niobrara and Platte.

Consumers can visit http://www.buymydish.com?kbid=1007 for more information.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) serves more than 12 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest-growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service.

EchoStar Communications Corporation today announced that its DISH Network(TM) satellite TV service will offer "DishFAMILY," a new "family-friendly" programming package with approximately 40 channels. With the launch of a new tier of programming options, DISH Network gives consumers the most choice among pay TV providers when it comes to designing a TV package that meets the needs of their family and budget.

Available Feb. 1, "DishFAMILY" will offer channel choices for everyone in the family such as sports, news, children's programming, lifestyle, hobbies, shopping and public interest. With DishFAMILY, customers will get valuable, family-sensitive content at the low price of $19.99 per month ($24.99 per month with local channels). This is an approximate $12 savings over the average cable company family tier. This low-priced package further establishes DISH Network as the lowest all-digital TV provider in the nation.

Other pay-TV providers have introduced "family" packages but with fewer channels and with a requirement that customers must purchase the "family" package along with a basic cable package that could be full of "inappropriate" family material. DISH Network offers DishFAMILY as a stand-alone package and with the most robust "family" package lineup. In addition, DishFAMILY is available with a free satellite TV receiver and free professional installation for up to four rooms.

"With the introduction of DishFAMILY, DISH Network becomes the pay-TV provider of choice among parents who want the most parental control and the largest package of family-specific TV channels, all at the lowest cost," said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network. "DishFAMILY is a package our customers have requested, and we are pleased that congressional hearings and the FCC have played a key role in encouraging programmers to agree to give DISH Network the rights to offer a family pack."

"DISH Family" channel lineup will include the following:

DISH Network, an advocate of family values, has been a pioneer in advanced parental controls technology available to customers at no additional cost. DISH Network's extensive parental controls include password protection, lock-by-ratings and extended ratings, system and channel locks, and DISH Network's own Adult Guard and Hide Adult Programming features, which when activated remove adult content and channel descriptions from that specific customer's program guide. Also, for customers who subscribe to DishFAMILY, adult channels and their content descriptions will be unavailable in the program guide.

To learn more about DISH Network's programming offers, visit http://www.buymydish.com?kbid=1007.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 12 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. Visit http://www.buymydish.com?kbid=1007

The Aspire 5670 series offers superior processing power thanks to the latest Intel Centrino Mobile Technology Duo platform, codenamed 'NAPA,' and its advanced components, including: Intel Core processor Duo, the Intel 945PM Express chipset and the Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG network connection chipset for full wireless connectivity.

Exceptional performance on the Aspire 5670 is also delivered through a fast SATA hard drive which offers storage capacity of up to 120GB. DDR2 memory provides the Aspire 5670 serious horsepower with standard system memory set at 1024MB which is scalable to 2048MB. The integrated ATI MOBILITY RADEON X1400 graphics card delivers better digital video and photo quality on the brilliant 15.4" widescreen CrystalBrite TFT LCD display with 1200 x 800 pixel resolution.

Productivity and Multimedia Enhancements

To meet the growing demand for IP-based communication facilities, the Aspire 5670 features Acer Video Conference with Voice and Video over IP (VVoIP) support via the Acer OrbiCam and the Acer Bluetooth VoIP phone.

Acer OrbiCam, the LCD panel-mounted 1.3 megapixel CMOS camera features:

• 225-degree ergonomic rotation
  
• Acer VisageOn technology (face tracking and centering software)
  
• Acer OptimaLight technology (image improving software)
  

Acer has also equipped the Aspire 5670 with a suite of software utilities -- Acer Empowering Technology -- designed to provide users with rapid access to the most advanced management and setting functions in no more than 3 mouse-clicks. For example, eDataSecurity Management provides superior security and protection of crucial data by creating a folder that automatically encrypts confidential files, while eRecovery management allows secure back-up of Hard Disk, OS and personal files. ePerformance management provides rapid disk and speed optimization along with disk fragmentation functions, while eSettings management allows intelligent system management. Acer Empowering Technology is launched though the Empowering Key and provides a set of smart tools designed to make it easy to fully exploit the system's technological power.

The Aspire 5670 inspires creativity with the Acer Aspire Arcade, a comprehensive suite for high-quality multimedia home entertainment providing effortless access to photo albums, DVD and video playback, editing & authoring. Acer Arcade is further enhanced by the integrated multimedia features of the Aspire 5670 such as Intel High-Definition audio support, built-in microphones, S/PDIF support for digital speakers, integrated DVD-Super Multi double-layer drive or DVD-Dual double-layer and a 5-in-1 memory card reader.

Connecting Power

The Aspire 5670 offers maximum flexibility for wireless, wired and dial-up connectivity, through the Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG network connection chipset with 802.11a, b and g standards, backed up by Acer SignalUp Wireless Technology, in addition to the integrated Bluetooth 2.0 module for easy connection to personal wireless devices. LAN connectivity is provided by the integrated gigabit Ethernet card while traditional dial-up connection is possible thanks to the 56Kbps ITU V.92 fax modem.

The Acer Aspire 5670 is equipped with a comprehensive set of I/O ports, including 4 USB 2.0 ports; DVI-D port, ExpressCard slot; PC Card slot (one Type II); IEEE 1394 port; Fast Infrared port; CIR port; External Display (VGA) port; S-video/Tv-out (NTSC/PAL) port; Headphones/speaker/line-out port with S/PDIF support; Microphone jack; Line-in jack; Ethernet (RJ-45) port; Modem (RJ-11) port; Parallel port; DC-in jack for the AC adapter.

The Aspire 5670 notebook series comes with Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition or Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition pre-installed. Additional installed software includes Acer Empowering Technology, Adobe Reader, Norton AntiVirus, CyberLink Power Producer, NTI CD-Maker together with Acer GridVista -- a software utility that divides the screen in up to 4 different windows -- each one associated with a different application -- and the Acer Arcade Software Suite featuring Acer CinemaVision(TM) video technology and Acer ClearVision(TM) video optimization technology.

Pricing
The Aspire 5670 is available through Acer Authorized Resellers throughout North America starting at approximately $1499.

Service and Support

The Acer Aspire 5670 notebook comes with a standard one-year parts and labor limited warranty, including concurrent International Traveler's Coverage. Additionally, all Acer notebooks are backed by toll-free service and support. Online support is available at http://www.acersupport.com.

About Acer America Corporation

Established in 1984 as a subsidiary of Acer, Inc., Acer America Corporation designs and markets client and server solutions for professionals who require reliability, enhanced productivity and greater value of ownership. As one of the largest global suppliers of PC's, more than 50 million Acer systems have been purchased throughout the world, solutions for living, learning and working. Acer America's award-winning products include tablet PCs, desktop PCs, notebook computers, servers, displays and peripheral solutions for business, government, education and home users. The pan Acer Group employs 39,000 people supporting dealers and distributors in over 100 countries. For more information about Acer America, please visit the website at http://www.acer.com/us.

Astar Electronics, a division of KXD Technology of Shenzhen, China, announced at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, the introduction of its new Ultra Slim, DivX(R) Certified 7" Portable DVD Player (Model # PD 8800).

"This portable DVD player is the perfect travel companion for your personal entertainment," said Sid Pickup, Director of Marketing for Astar Electronics, Inc. "It has all of the of the features consumers are looking for and it fits neatly into its custom travel case."

Highlights of the new Astar PD 8800 include its DivX(R) certification, its ultra slim, top loading portable DVD player with built-in speakers and its 7" LCD screen. Additional features include 1440 x 234 resolution, a 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio, an access time of 12 ms and the ability to connect to a TV via the composite output. The PD 8800 also comes with AC & DC power adapters, AV cables, ear buds, a full function remote control, a rechargeable battery and a travel bag.

DivX(R) has become the new standard for digital video -- dubbed the "MP3 of video" for its remarkable compression and widespread popularity. DivX(R) video enables anyone, anywhere to create and enjoy DVD-quality digital video.

Astar Electronics will begin shipping its new Ultra Slim, DivX(R) Certified 7" Portable DVD Player in Q1 2006 with an MSRP of $149.99.

Astar Electronics is fully supported by KXD's new state-of-the-art 1.3 million square foot manufacturing facility in Shenzhen China, which is ISO 9001 certified, employs more than 3,000 people, has more than 30 production lines with TQM (total quality management) systems, and is currently capable of producing more than 16 million units annually. KXD Technology is one of the fastest growing manufacturers of CE Digital Entertainment products in China with 2004 revenues exceeding $239 Million (USD).

About Astar Electronics

Astar Electronics, a division of KXD Technology of Shenzhen China, offers a variety of innovative and high quality digital entertainment devices to the consumer electronics marketplace throughout North America. Current product offerings include LCD Widescreen HDTVs, DVD Players and Recorders, Portable DVD players and Home Theater (HTIB) Systems. The Company is headquartered in Baldwin Park, California. For more information, please call 626-851-2528 or visit http://www.astarelectronics.com.

EchoStar Communications Corporation and its DISH Network satellite TV service announced today from the 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show the rollout of its new high-definition television package, DishHD. By offering the most HD channels in the pay-TV industry and with the introduction of a new line of advanced satellite receivers, DishHD gives its customers more than 1,700 hours a week of HD content from the nation's top programmers.

DISH Network is expanding its HD channel lineup in 2006 by adding five new original VOOM channels -- bringing the total to 15 -- as well as other new HD networks including ESPN2 HD and Universal HD. In addition, DISH Network will launch high-definition local channels through its satellite service in up to 50 markets in 2006, starting with Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles and New York in February, and reaching more than 50 percent of U.S. TV households with local HD channels. The remainder of the country's local HD channels will be offered to DISH Network customers via an off-air antenna solution.

DishHD offers 25 national HD channels plus local broadcast channels where available, providing more than 200 hours of HD programming every day. Cable companies, with a national average of just 10 HD channels, cannot come close to the robust lineup of DishHD.

With up to four different programming packages to choose from, DishHD customers can find an option that best fits their viewing needs. For as little as $54.99 a month, customers can access the entire 25-channel DishHD lineup, and get more than 70 all-digital standard definition channels plus their local channels in standard and high definition.

Current DishHD channels include:

On Feb. 1, DISH Network will begin transmitting newly added HD channels in MPEG4, a signal compression standard developed by MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group). MPEG4 allows DISH Network to maximize the bandwidth available on its satellites and offer the most robust lineup of HD channels in the nation.

New DishHD channels available only in MPEG4 include:

DISH Network is also introducing at CES a new series of satellite receivers that combine MPEG4 and MPEG2 signal capability. The cutting-edge ViP Series combines state-of-the-art imaging technology with life-like Dolby(R) Digital 5.1 surround sound for the best picture and sound quality available. Existing customers with MPEG2 equipment, such as the DISH Player DVR 942, will continue to receive all their current content and will need to upgrade to a ViP Series receiver to receive the new HD channels. DISH Network will offer a convenient upgrade package for existing customers who want to expand their HD lineup to include the new channels.

The ViP211(TM) HD satellite receiver, the first model in the ViP series that supports both MPEG4 and MPEG2, is available through DISH Network for only $49.99 for new lease customers.

Also included in the ViP series is the ViP622(TM) DVR, the world's first MPEG4 multi-room high definition and digital video recorder satellite TV receiver with the ability to view independent programs -- one in high definition and one in standard definition programming -- on two televisions at once. No other pay-TV company offers this innovative combination. It features a massive hard drive with a recording capacity of up to 25 hours of high-definition and up to 180 hours of standard-definition content.

The cutting-edge ViP622 DVR also features reverse, fast-forward, and pause as well as a picture-in-picture feature on any TV and the ability to record Dolby Digital(R) when available. The ViP622 DVR will be available in the first quarter of 2006 for a one-time upgrade price of $299 for new lease customers, which includes a dish antenna and free standard professional installation (monthly DVR fee applies).

The ViP622 DVR also features:

• Digital/analog off-air tuner

• Up to 9-day, Picture-In-Guide, Widescreen Electronic Program Guide (EPG)

• High-Definition Resolutions: 480p, 720p, 1080i (480i is up-converted)

• Records two programs simultaneously in high definition, but programs can be viewed in standard definition on other TVs in the home.
  

The ViP622 DVR offers DISH Network's convenience and features that customers have grown to depend on, including parental controls, electronic program guide, picture in guide and name-based recording.

Consumers visit www.buymydish.com for more information.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 12 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. Visit www.buymydish.com for more information.

At the 2006 Consumer Electronics Show, Thomson introduced the LYRA X3000 Personal Multimedia Recorder, a stunning handheld multipurpose device that will soon feature secure high-speed video transfers from select DIRECTV digital video recorders. Along with this DIRECTV2Go capability, the pocket-sized LYRA X3000 by RCA allows for the direct recording of up to 40 feature-length films from multiple video sources without using a computer and is ideal for digital subscription music content - all in the palm of your hand.

"The LYRA X3000 morphs into a virtual VCR, utilizing MPEG4 technology, with the capability for both real-time recording from any analog source or high-speed transfer of digitized content, plus the advantage of DVD quality picture performance when outputting to a TV," said Thomson's Dan Collishaw, Chief Operating Officer of Thomson's Americas Audio/Video and Accessory businesses. "These features, along with remote control operation and programmability, make the LYRA X3000 an ideal entertainment complement for the next-generation DIRECTV digital video recorders (DVRs), scheduled for deployment in 2006. A convenient software upgrade, at no cost to the consumer, is all that is required for this remarkable DIRECTV compatibility," Collishaw added.

Although compact in size, the LYRA X3000 by RCA boasts a 3.6-inch TFT ultra-bright color LCD screen with 320 x 240 resolution. The lightweight portable entertainment device weighs under eight ounces and is only 3/4 of an inch thick. The LYRA X3000 features a replaceable lithium ion battery providing for at least four hours of constant video playback on one charge.

While the X3000 is a great portable solution, it also features a Home Theater Docking Base that can be connected to a home entertainment system. The Docking Base enables easy time-shift recording of TV programs from a tuning source such as the video output of a television or cable/satellite set-top receiver. With a composite video output the X3000 is capable of displaying high-resolution photos as well as video with DVD picture quality. The X3000 is ideal for watching video content transferred from a PC, or any other source, on a television.

The DIRECTV2GO compatibility further expands the LYRA X3000's capability for entertainment on the go. Digital quality content securely downloaded from compatible DIRECTV DVRs to the X3000 can be easily viewed on televisions located in other rooms. The device displays TV programs and program information in a format familiar to customers with these compatible DIRECTV DVRs. This will make it simple to navigate through the dozens of hours of DIRECTV programming that can be stored on the X3000's 20GB hard drive. A free software download is all that is required for DIRECTV2GO compatibility with the X3000.

Music To Go

Compatible with both pay-per-song and subscription services, the LYRA X3000 can store hundreds of hours of mp3, Windows Media Audio, and Audible audio files - including those from popular PC-based subscription music and video services. ID3 tag song data with artist, album, song title and genre is displayed on the viewing screen. Music buffs can listen to their collection of mp3 files using one of nine playback modes, including normal play, shuffle and repeat, or by programming their own playlists. The X3000 comes bundled with earbud headphones, and also features a built-in speaker.

Photo Capability

Additionally, this versatile jukebox offers the capability to create slide shows with zoom and photo rotation, and users can add their own music for further enhancement. The X3000 can easily transfer digital photos from an SD memory card or compatible camera without needing a computer, or the consumer can move audio, video, and photos from a PC to the device with the built-in high-speed USB connection.

Other Key Features

An impressive package of convenience and performance enhancements optimize enjoyment of the LYRA X3000 including:

• Voice Labeling: enables recording of audio commentary to go with photos or images stored on the device's hard drive
  
• Auto Resume: remembers the track location and volume setting when the power is shut off and automatically returns to the location when the device is turned on
  
• Universal 3-Device IR Remote Control: allows user to operate the X3000 and other devices from a distance
  

The LYRA X3000 by RCA is available in January with a suggested retail price of $399.

Microsoft Corp. and MTV Networks, a division of Viacom Inc., today unveiled the new Windows Media® Player 11 and offered an early look at the URGE digital music service during the kickoff keynote address for the 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates was joined onstage by MTV Networks’ Music Group President Van Toffler and music superstar Justin Timberlake to preview the seamless integration of Microsoft® Windows Media Player 11 and MTV Networks’ URGE, which is designed to bring the emotional connection of music to the forefront of the digital entertainment experience.

Gates and Toffler highlighted the fresh, streamlined design for Windows Media Player 11 with optimized device support and incredibly fast search capabilities that provide consumers with instant access to the entire URGE catalog of more than 2 million songs. Set to debut this year, URGE will offer a deep well of programming and editorial to guide the consumer’s digital music experience, including exclusive content from MTV Networks’ MTV, VH1 and CMT brands.

“Microsoft and MTV Networks have combined their strengths to dramatically redefine how Windows® users discover and enjoy music,” Gates said. “The result is a seamless melding of software and entertainment expertise that makes it easy for people to discover new music and listen to old favorites.”

“Our audience has come to expect us to deliver the world’s best music programming on MTV, VH1 and CMT,” Toffler said. “URGE will be a major new way for artists across all genres — from alt-country to zydeco — to connect with their fans and find new audiences through multiplatform exposure from MTV Networks and on one of the world’s most popular digital media players, Windows Media Player.”

The Best All-in-One Media Player From Microsoft

As their digital music collections continue to grow, consumers increasingly need software to help them find and organize their music. Windows Media Player 11 addresses this head-on with core advancements that include a simplified user experience and unprecedented performance. Windows Media Player 11 makes it easy to manage all media through innovative design improvements from Windows Vista™, including visual navigation of entire media libraries, and simplified, high-performance device synchronization. Additional performance enhancements let consumers easily scroll through and access music faster than any other media player, whether the library contains 50 or 50,000 tracks. The powerful Windows Media Player 11 wordwheel search brings an entire catalog of music to consumers’ fingertips, providing lightning-fast search results that instantly narrow with each keystroke. Windows Media Player 11 with URGE will be available in Windows Vista, and is also scheduled to be available for Windows XP in the first half of 2006.

Extensive Entertainment Programming From MTV Networks

MTV Networks’ URGE will be the first and only digital music service designed by music veterans for music fans. Whether consumers want to take a few minutes to purchase a specific song or spend hours immersed in the service’s extensive music programming, URGE will provide an experience equally enjoyable for all audiences, from intense fans to aficionados. With robust search capabilities, extensive music charts, and countless programmed playlists, URGE will offer constantly updated music feature stories, exclusive interviews, music videos, and other multimedia editorial across all music genres and styles that provide context and direction for music lovers. URGE will be a one-stop digital music experience for consumers to hear, discover, purchase and enjoy music.

With URGE, music fans will get a choice in how they want to consume digital music to best fit their lifestyle, whether through permanent a la carte download purchases, music subscriptions or fully portable subscriptions. URGE also will feature one of the most robust radio offerings available on the Internet, with more than 100 free and premium stations, all programmed by passionate music professionals. URGE will incorporate MusicNet’s library of more than 2 million tracks, the largest available music library in the industry today. The library includes licensed content from all of the major record labels and thousands of independents. MusicNet is the world’s leading business-to-business digital music service provider.

URGE will be promoted across a broad range of MTV Networks platforms, including the MTV, MTV2, mtvU, MTV Hits, MTV Jams, VH1, VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul and CMT channels, as well as being fully integrated throughout MTV Networks Web sites MTV.com, VH1.com, CMT.com and the new URGE.com. Promotion for URGE will be woven throughout MTV Networks’ on-air and online programming, communicating the consumer benefits and explaining the how-to’s of digital music, while providing an easy and intuitive way for audiences to extend their MTV, VH1 and CMT music experiences.

Seamless Integration Between Music Service and Media Player

Microsoft and MTV Networks have collaborated to enhance the URGE experience with innovations that make using a digital music service as straightforward as accessing a user’s local library. Consumers will enjoy exceptionally fast access to URGE content with enhanced wordwheel search capabilities. With integrated hard-drive and music service browsing, consumers will see all tracks related to their searches, including those from the massive URGE catalog but not stored on their PC. In addition, with drag-and-drop playlist creation, consumers can simply move individual songs or entire stacks of albums into the URGE playlist pane for syncing to a device or burning to a CD. More than 100 portable devices and home network media devices compatible with Windows Media, including the Xbox 360™ video game system, will work with URGE.

Additional URGE features, functionality, and related partnerships will be announced in coming months as URGE is introduced with Windows Media Player 11.

About MTV Networks

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services — MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 80 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Microsoft, Windows Media, Windows, Windows Vista and Xbox 360 are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.

"Blu-ray is the superior high definition technology that fully delivers on the promise of a next generation format and represents the bright future of home entertainment," noted Mike Dunn, President Worldwide, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. "The release of our films on Blu-ray will provide consumers with in-home entertainment beyond anything they have imagined."

Fox's commitment to emerging technologies is dedicated to enhancing the consumer experience of its products and providing for backward compatibility with their existing home entertainment libraries while also aggressively protecting its intellectual property from piracy. The Blu-ray member companies fully embrace the Studio's steadfast commitment to the fight against piracy and the preservation of the integrity of its properties. Twentieth Century Fox joined the Board of Directors of the Blu-ray Disc Association in 2004 and remains an active contributor to the formats continuing development.

About the Blu-ray Disc Association:

The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) is responsible for establishing format standards and promoting and further developing business opportunities for Blu-ray Disc -- the next-generation optical disc for storing high-definition movies, photos and other digital content. The BDA has more than 160 members. Its Board of Directors consists of Apple Computer, Inc.; Dell Inc.; Hewlett Packard Company; Hitachi, Ltd.; LG Electronics Inc.; Mitsubishi Electric Corporation; Panasonic (Matsushita Electric); Pioneer Corporation; Royal Philips Electronics; Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.; Sharp Corporation; Sony Corporation; TDK Corporation; Thomson; Twentieth Century Fox; and Walt Disney Pictures and Television.

About Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC:

A recognized global industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming on VHS and DVD as well as video acquisitions and original productions. Each year the Company introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets -- from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce -- throughout the world. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC is a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company.