XP partnerships have a familiar ring
C|Net | at | by Mike
Can lightning strike the same place twice? Maybe it will for Microsoft. In an announcement with eerie similarities to Microsoft's first major salvo in the browser wars, the software giant revealed Wednesday that 150 companies will support Windows XP's media technology and formats. The deals, announced on the eve of the operating system's launch, could help Microsoft's ongoing battle with streaming-media rival RealNetworks and the MP3 digital music format. Microsoft's roster of supporters lacks marquee names such as AOL Time Warner and Walt Disney, but nevertheless cuts a wide swath across the computer, Internet and entertainment industries. Partners planning to build products or deliver services specifically around digital media technologies found in Windows XP include AMG, Aiwa, CinemaNow, Compaq Computer, Kenwood, Pressplay and Sonicblue.