Microsoft has been in the peripheral and accessories business for a while, although the company is not necessarily known for targeting its consumer products at low price points. After all, most computers come with standard peripherals like a keyboard and mouse, and consumers on a budget aren’t very likely to upgrade: better for third-party hardware makers to target the mid- and high-end market with specialized (and higher-margin) products that differentiate on the basis of features and quality.
Well, this time around, Microsoft is bucking the trend with its new LifeCam VX-2000, a straight-up basic USB Webcam at a straight-up, basic price: $29.95. The LifeCam VX-2000 offers a VGA-resolution sensor—that’s a mere 640 by 480 pixels, although software can interpolate images up to 1.3 megapixels—along with a built-in noise-reducing microphone. The VX-2000 can handle 3 fps video, and is optimized for use with Windows Live Messenger by offering a Windows Live Call button and a LifeCam dashboard for easily managing video calls. The camera will work with AIM, Yahoo Messenger, Skype, along with Windows Live and Microsoft Office Communicator, and also offers a 3× digital zoom, plus the camera can be set on a desk surface or clipped to a monitor or notebook display.
The VX-2000 should be available in June at a suggested price of $29.95.
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