Logitech VideoCall for Broadband
FREMONT, Calif. - Nov. 17, 2004 - Logitech, the world's leading manufacturer of webcams, today announced the commercial availability of Logitech(R) VideoCall for broadband, a way for friends and family around the world to communicate over the Internet using fully integrated live video and audio. With a webcam, a broadband Internet connection, and the Logitech VideoCall for broadband software and service, people can not only talk to one another, but also see each other and share pictures. Logitech QuickCam(R) webcam users can take advantage of a free 30-day trial of the new service.
"We've added a new dimension to video communication over the Internet," said Junien Labrousse, senior vice president of Logitech's Video Business Unit. "With Logitech VideoCall for broadband, we have focused on creating an intuitive video calling experience, using a familiar, easy-to-use software interface that enhances the overall communications experience. We believe video calling has the potential to have the same impact on the growth of the webcam market as the widespread use of video instant messaging has had."
The Logitech VideoCall for broadband service is supported by Logitech back-end technology that synchronizes audio with video, optimizes the video quality and frame rate, and helps deliver connections through firewalls or Network Address Translation (NAT).
"Applications such as Logitech VideoCall for broadband are changing the landscape of personal video communication," said Crawford Del Prete, senior vice president, IDC Hardware Research. "As a market leader in webcams, Logitech is defining promising uses for webcams that will ultimately help create more value and demand for this product category."
Logitech expects webcam use with text-based instant messaging applications such as MSN(R) Messenger, AOL(R) Instant Messenger (AIM(R)) and Yahoo!(R) Instant Messenger to remain extremely popular. However, there is a growing segment of consumers who want a highly integrated video and audio experience, which Logitech VideoCall for broadband provides.
About Logitech VideoCall for Broadband
Optimized for use with the company's popular line of QuickCam(R) Web cameras, Logitech VideoCall for broadband sends and receives video at 320 x 240 pixels at a speed of up to 15-20 frames per second. An intuitive wizard helps guide individuals through the setup of audio and video components. Once set up, it's simple to see who is online, and with one click on a name, it's easy to make a call. The elegant interface includes a contact list similar to those used in instant messaging applications. The application also allows participants to share images and PowerPoint(R) presentations during a call. To eliminate echo between computer speakers and a microphone, Logitech recommends use of a headset when making video calls. A beta version of Logitech VideoCall for broadband has been available since March of 2004.
Pricing and Availability
Logitech VideoCall for broadband is available in 19 countries and 14 languages for a price of $6.95 per month in the United States. Six and 12-month plans are also available. People can view information about the free trial offer and full pricing structure, and sign up for Logitech VideoCall at www.logitech.com/videocall .
About Logitech
Founded in 1981, Logitech designs, manufactures and markets personal peripherals that enable people to effectively work, play, and communicate in the digital world. Logitech International is a Swiss public company traded on the Swiss Stock Exchange (LOGN) and in the U.S. on the Nasdaq National Market System (LOGI). The company has manufacturing facilities in Asia and offices in major cities in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.
Logitech, the Logitech logo, and other Logitech marks are owned by Logitech and may be registered. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
