Microsoft releases two VX webcams for use with Windows Live Messenger

The cameras' interface integrates into the Messenger Live Messenger window

13 June 2006 18:00 GMT / By Amber Maitland

Microsoft is releasing two new webcams to enhance user experience with video communication.

In conjunction with Windows Live, Microsoft Hardware has developed the LifeCam VX-6000 and LifeCam VX-3000, which are optimised for use with Windows Live Messenger.

Features include a Windows Live Call Button that brings up the Buddy Picker, a tool that shows users buddies currently online, with one touch, as well as a LifeCam Dashboardk, which is built into the Windows Live Messenger window to control the webcam with pan, tilt, and zoom.

The LifeCam window also features a button that lets users post a high definition LifeCam picture directly to their Windows Live Space blog.

The VX-6000 is the top-of-the-lint model that can shoot 5.0 megapixels interpolated still images, High Definition video of 1.3 megapixels, and features a 3x digital zoom. The angle of view is a generous 71-degrees.

The smaller sibline to the VX-6000 is the VX-3000 that takes still images of 1.3 megapixels interpolated and video of 640x480 pixels.

The cameras come with a Universal Attachment Base to secure them to any size monitor.

Melissa Dewick, Head of Marketing of the Consumer Productivity Experiences Group at Microsoft UK, says, "Microsoft Hardware and Windows Live are defining that movement with a new approach to integrated products and services that give consumer the power to have a richer digital communications experience and make everyday events extraordinary".

The LifeCam VX-6000 is expected to retail for