Video Without Boundaries has announced the debut of the MediaReady Internet/DVD Player (VWB-3000), an easy-to-use home entertainment device that makes it possible to surf the Web, send email, watch DVD videos, and even sing karaoke from any television.

Similar in size and appearance to a conventional DVD player, MediaReady combines a DVD player and Web browser with a full-sized wireless keyboard, a media player for playback of Web-based streaming media, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, picture-in-picture capability, a karaoke microphone jack, and other features that enable consumers to access all popular forms of home entertainment from the comfort of their couch. The DVD player supports CDs, VCDs, SVCDs and CDs with MP3 files as well as DVDs, allowing users to play the latest video and audio.

An official release informs that MediaReady supports all forms of Internet connection including 56 kbps modem, dynamic DSL and cable modems, and 10/100 Base-T Ethernet. The built-in Web browser includes SSL 3.0 for secure online shopping. MediaReady turns any television into a convergent home entertainment device. Now it's possible to watch TV while surfing the Internet, or easily read and respond to email, from the convenience of a living room chair. MediaReady also forms the basis of a state-of-the-art home theater system, thanks to its Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound capability.

MediaReady's VWB Internet PIP(TM) picture-in-picture feature allows users to multi-task their favorite pastimes, such as viewing the Web while watching a DVD movie or television programme. The product supports the most popular inkjet and laser printers, . It is also compatible with the optional VWB Digital Camera, making it easy to add photos to outgoing email.

MediaReady's Intel Mobile Pentium 266 MHz MMX processor with 64 MB flash storage and 128 MB DRAM deliver powerful Internet and email capability. A user-friendly, TV-optimized user interface allows even first- time users to navigate with ease. The unit also ships with a remote control, microphone, and all cables needed for easy hookup.

Video Without Boundaries claims to be a leader in the converging digital media on demand, enhanced home entertainment and emerging interactive consumer electronics markets. VWB is focused on home entertainment media products and solutions that enhance the consumer experience, while providing new revenue opportunities for online music and movie content providers. VWB and its subsidiaries, are leading suppliers of broadband products, services and content including its ability to deliver broadcast quality digital video and web interactivity at transfer rates as low as 56K.