Microsoft extends Windows Media content to TVs, DVD players

Microsoft posted for download on September 25 updates to its Windows Vista Media Center code that will allow users to run content on their digital TVs and networked DVD players.

The new Media Center Extender updates are available in 32-bit and 64-bit flavors and can be applied to Vista Ultimate or Vista Home Premium. The updates allow users to stream pictures, music, video content and live TV from Vista PCs to big-screen TV displays, for example.

Microsoft has shown off the new extender technology, which was codenamed "Pika," a few times over the past year. Earlier this month, Microsoft officials said they would unveil the new Media Extender technology at the Digital Life Conference, which kicks off this week in New York City.

Until now, Microsoft has focused its extender efforts on Xbox 360 consoles.