Microsoft announced Monday the most updated version of its TV software for cable operators, Microsoft TV Foundation Edition 1.7, with features to support advanced digital recording and high-definition television. Released last year in its first incarnation, the software includes Microsoft's interactive programming guide--or channel guide--with tools to support video on demand, interactive advertising and digital video recording (DVR). Microsoft TV spokesman Ed Gracyck said the most pre-eminent feature in edition 1.7 is support for dual-tuner DVRs that let consumers record two TV shows at the same time, as opposed to one. Because of this advance, it can support Motorola's new DCT 6412 set-top box, Gracyck said.
Microsoft TV also sells software for Internet Protocol TV, geared to telecommunications providers, but has yet to update it. The unveiling was timed with a national cable convention in New Orleans.
Discuss: Microsoft plugs new DVR