Philips Introduces the iPronto - a Personalised ‘Dashboard’ for the Digital Home

         

Monday, September 30, 2002

        

CEDIA Expo 2002 - Minneapolis - Philips (AEX: PHI, NYSE: PHG) is extending its portfolio of intelligent display-based wireless devices by launching an innovative addition to the award-winning Pronto™ family of touchscreen remote controls - the iPronto.

Unveiled at the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) Expo in Minneapolis, iPronto will provide consumers with a dynamic and easy-to-manage control platform for the connected home.


Based around a 6.4-inch (16cm) touchscreen LCD display, iPronto provides complete control of both audio/video devices and other household appliances which use either infra red or RF (radio frequency) remote control, such as lighting and air conditioning. Furthermore, a broadband Internet connection opens up an exciting new chapter in home entertainment, enabling the iPronto to access and download online content such as electronic program guides (EPGs), or to check news, e-mail and favourite websites.


Easy operation


Users can easily control devices either via the 640x480 resolution LCD display, or via exterior hard buttons, a stylus or with an integrated thumbwheel. The iPronto's easy-to-use interface includes the ability to access and display multiple information windows with simple navigation.


Utilizing WiFi (802.11b), the iPronto can also be used throughout the home to control devices and access content. Furthermore, iPronto features a built-in microphone and stereo speakers, enabling users to listen to MP3 files from the Internet, and can even be used as a web phone. For fast an easy access to content stored on PCs, the iPronto includes a USB connection. Battery powered, the iPronto includes a charger for topping up the battery quickly and easily, while an integrated flip-out stand provides a convenient rest during usage.


Philips will be introducing the iPronto exclusively in the United States this Autumn, and will be priced $1699.00. Plans for iPronto's introduction in Europe, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific market will be released in the coming months.

About Royal Philips Electronics

Royal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) is one of the world's biggest electronics companies and Europe's largest, with sales of EUR 30.3 billion in 2004. With activities in the three interlocking domains of healthcare, lifestyle and technology and 161,100 employees in more than 60 countries, it has market leadership positions in medical diagnostic imaging and patient monitoring, color television sets, electric shavers, lighting and silicon system solutions. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter