Microsoft and Broadcom Corp. yesterday announced a joint effort to support the creation and adoption of a hardware and software reference design aimed at the delivery of more cost-efficient HD DVD playback. The new reference platform uses Microsoft Windows CE 6.0 and Broadcom's BCM7440 system-on-chip to deliver a standardised player solution for use by third-party electronics manufacturers.

Amongst the vendors signed up to the initiative are Lite-On IT Corp., described as "one of the most experienced systems integrators backing high-volume consumer electronics manufacturers" as well as one of China's largest DVD player equipment manufacturers Zhenjiang Jiangkui Group Co. Ltd.

The move highlights recent moves by Windows Embedded to focus Windows CE towards commercial multi-media uses, a move which aims to expand the adoption and capabilities of Microsoft's now decade old platform.

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