In his CES keynote address, Microsoft chairman Bill Gates announced that an external HD DVD drive will be offered as an accessory for the Xbox 360 later this year. The add-on will turn the game console into a high-definition movie player. He didn't announce its price.
Microsoft has sided with Toshiba and Intel in the next-generation-DVD format war.
For viewers who want more programming choice than is available off the air but not the expense of cable or satellite, USDTV offers a unique alternative. It leases unused secondary digital channels, often from religious broadcasters, and provides over-the-air pay TV.
Nintendo superstar Mario the plumber gazes appreciatively at the new Game Boy Advance-compatible version of Visteon's Dockable Family Entertainment System.
Day 1 at CES is always press-event day. The show floor isn't formally open, and if you do manage to get in (which requires an exhibitor badge), the most exciting thing you'll see is a fork-lift barreling down on you. And while you wonder how they will ever have things ready for the next day, they always do.