Bandai Digital Entertainment announced as expected the first multimedia and Internet information appliance based on Apple Computer's Pippin operating system.
Now called Pippin @World, the system is expected to be available to consumers in September for $599.
The appliance, designed to plug in to a TV set, is equipped with a keyboard and can play CD-ROMs, as well as provide Internet access. Pippin users will be charged $24.95 a month for Net access, according to a report in the San Jose Mercury News.
Company officials say that CD-ROMs developed for the Macintosh can be easily adapted to the Pippin format and that all Pippin-based titles will be able to play on the Mac.
Bandai Digital's parent company, Bandai of Japan, is best known in the United States as the maker of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers action figure toys.
Related story:
RealAudio coverage: CNET Radio