Cisco beta testing $500 consumer version of TelePresence video conferencing

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Also announces ESPN using TelePresence to help broadcast 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.

As part of its evolving efforts to market its popular TelePresence video conferencing technology into the lives of consumers, Cisco Systems recently announced home and internal trials of a consumer version of its popular TelePresence videoconferencing system. The company expects to introduce the product late in 2010 starting at around $500.

Deriving from Cisco's mega-buck business videoconferencing systems, these simplified consumer systems "would just plug it into your television," according to Robert Lloyd, Cisco's executive vice president.

On the heels of Google announcing its internet TV plans last week, this announcement from Cisco no doubt has signaled another chapter unfolding in the battle for control of home entertainment and the convergence of the internet and traditional television. With Cisco's excellent VoIP reputation further bolstered by its recent acquisition of Tandberg of Norway, the company's consumer devices will likely provide very competitive performance.

To further help introduce TelePresence to consumer around the world, Cisco announced late last week that ESPN will use TelePresence to deliver live and recorded coverage of soccer matches and connect the global soccer community with teams, players and coaches at the 2010 FIFA World Cup Soccer Tournament in South Africa. The incorporation of Cisco TelePresence will allow ESPN to deliver televised content more effectively and economically as well as enhance soccer fans' viewing experience. By using the existing Cisco broadband network in South Africa, the two industry leaders are enabling a more timely delivery of video content, including greater fan access to unique game analysis and player footage, remote interviews with visiting country leaders, coaches, players and fans, all from highly secure and quiet locations with convenient access to key stadium sites. The remote broadcast interviews captured via Cisco TelePresence will then be accessible for soccer fans to view on ESPN's worldwide soccer sites.

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