Gates shrugs off Google competition. Microsoft leader touts new digital products

Rival Google Inc. may be nipping at its heels, but Microsoft Corp. wasn’t flashing any defeatist signs Wednesday night as it showcased its latest plans to help make living in the digital world safer, easier and more fun.

In his 10th keynote to kick off the International Consumer Electronics Show, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates highlighted Windows Vista, a major operating system upgrade set for release this year. He also discussed how Microsoft’s Xbox game console and media-oriented software for PCs and electronics gadgets are aiming to help consumers connect more easily with each other, get more entertainment and deliver more high-definition video.

By May Wong, Associated Press

Full Story: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/tech/article/0,2777,DRMN_23910_4365007,00.html

***

Gates Sees 2006 as the Year For ‘The Digital Lifestyle’

By Mike Musgrove and Arshad Mohammed
Washington Post Staff Writers

Microsoft Corp. Chairman Bill Gates outlined his vision for the future of consumer technology in a major speech Wednesday night at the International Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas as he unveiled an array of new products aimed at the growing appetite for digital entertainment.

During his speech, Gates painted a picture of a digital world in which many devices, including cell phones, computers and televisions, seamlessly complement one another.

"Technology has revolutionized how we listen to music, watch TV, play games, communicate and manage and share personal information," he said. "2006 is going to be a big year for the digital lifestyle."

Full Story: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/04/AR2006010401941.html