Microsoft is expected to showcase a number of new consumer products at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), including remote-controlled USB handsets and Ultra Mobile PCs (UMPCs), according to sources at related Taiwan-based manufacturers, who also indicated that the launch of the products will benefit Taiwan"s OEM companies.
The USB handset, which aims to compete with Skype-enabled handsets, will come with a remote controller that is able to integrate various functions being played by a PC, a TV interface and audio/video devices, the sources noted. As indicated by the sources, Taiwan-based Accton Technology and Winbond Electronics will supply Bluetooth-enabled modules and chipsets, respectively, for the remote-controlled USB handset.