New Pronto: Although not the announcement I was hoping for (can anyone say "color"?), Philips Electronics has just posted a press release announcing the Pronto TSU2000. The New TSU2000, which will be available this fall, has 2 megabytes of memory -- an upgrade from the current 1mb TS1000. As on the recently released Marantz RC5000i, 2 megs of memory will actually provide more than double the available space, due to how it is used. The new model also adds a built-in code database which, as we can gather from this earlier press release, is most likely licensed from Universal Electronics Inc., makers of the current One For All and Radio Shack lines of remotes.

As expected, the new model will come in the same silver case as the European Pronto (what exactly is it with the silver fetish electronics manufacturers have these days?), but will not feature an increase in price -- the TSU2000 keeps the same $399 suggested list price as the TS1000. No further details are included in the release as to where the code database is stored (for example, how much it impacts on available user memory), or as to whether owners of the current Pronto can upgrade their remotes with the new functionality. I hope to have more information soon.

September 8, 2000
Philips Debuts the Pronto TSU2000 Universal Remote Control

The TSU2000 Provides the Ultimate Customized Home Theater Experience -- Your Way to Total Control

INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 8 -- Furthering its commitment to making things better, Philips Consumer Electronics introduced its Pronto TSU2000 Universal Remote today at the Custom Electronic Design & Installation (CEDIA) 2000 Expo in Indianapolis, Ind. (Sept. 7-10). Building on the success of the award-winning Pronto Intelligent Remote Control, the Pronto TSU2000 will allow consumers to control and further customize their entire home theater experience with one remote that fits in the palm of your hand. Pronto TSU2000 will be available this fall for $399.99.

Due to an overwhelming response from consumers after the introduction of Pronto, the TSU2000 features an expanded memory of two megabytes and the Pronto Universal database, which has infrared codes for more than 260 brands in 17 product categories. This onboard database is accessed through a user-friendly graphical set-up, which allows Pronto to memorize your devices in seconds without the user having to search for model names or program in codes. The TSU2000 also has the ability to learn codes so it can control current and/or future devices that may not be in the database. In addition to state-of-the-art technology advancements, the TSU2000 has a new innovative look with a silver metallic case.

Pronto brings together total home entertainment control, complete command customization, an intuitive interface and a unique, attractive ergonomical design. The Pronto Universal replaces all other remotes in the home, resulting in less clutter in the living room and less confusion for the user. The new universal database makes set up so simple that kids can do it.

"The addition of the Universal database and expanded memory is a direct result of key consumer feedback," said Thorsten Koch, senior vice president and general manager of Philips Video, North America. "With the TSU2000 we've simplified and re-defined the universal remote making it a fun tool for anyone, from the novice to the expert, to use."

The Pronto Universal features easily accessible hard keys for basic functions -- channel up/down and volume control, but all other functions are controlled through a large LCD touchscreen that can be backlit. The screen allows users to customize what "buttons" should be featured on their remote including the ability to import and display graphics. The expanded memory allows for more graphic downloads and increased task functions, making the individual user's imagination the only thing that limits what Pronto can do for their home theater experience.

Tailored and Expandable to Individual Needs
Pronto combines all of the complex functions of button-dependent devices into an easy-to-program touchscreen that is fully customizable, making the operation of a home theater as simple as the touch of a finger. Pronto comes pre-programmed with common A/V component commands and IR codes for more than 260 brands of home theater devices. The remote can be customized as new A/V components are added, by labeling and addressing virtual buttons in the control menus. Through editable macro buttons on the LCD, users can interactively create a sequence of commands that can control the home entertainment system from up to 33 feet. With two megabytes of memory, the user is able to store a vast number of macro commands in Pronto. Pronto's memory allows programming to be saved even if the battery is removed. The optional accessory kit ($79.99) includes a charger cradle, A/C adapter and rechargeable battery pack.

As new technologies are implemented into future consumer electronic devices, Pronto can easily be expanded to meet the user's needs and requirements. New A/V components can be added to the Pronto Universal one of three ways: by using the codes found in the Universal database, with the learning eye on the Pronto that captures the IR code from the old remote and by downloading CCF files with the correct codes from Web sites such as Remotecentral.com and Prontoedit.com.

Dynamic Display and Elegant Design
The elegant design combines the ease of a LCD with the comfort of direct-access buttons, making Pronto simple but flexible. Providing a larger display than most handheld remote controls in its category, Pronto easily manages A/V components via the touchscreen LCD that measures 3 x 2.3 inches. Familiar icons and a smartly designed layout allows anyone to quickly and easily execute routine commands.

Measuring 5.4 x 3.6 inches and weighing 8.8 ounces, Pronto's handheld design can be used with one or two hands. It can be used in the dark due to its back-light illumination. The sleek metallic case gives it a futuristic appeal that will compliment any decor.

Futuristic Customization and Advancement
Pronto Edit Software enables Pronto users to let their imaginations take control. By synching the Pronto universal remote control to a PC, today's tech-minded individuals can program their Pronto to new levels. It allows users to import graphics such as a channel icons or pictures of their A/V components. The software also creates an easy environment to create and edit macro commands, customize menus and layout the virtual buttons on LCD screen enabling the user to control their IR devices with a single tap of the screen. Pronto Edit software can be downloaded from http://www.pronto.philips.com into a PC and then connected by a RS232 serial cable to a Pronto remote.

Customer Support and Information
Pronto Universal is covered by a one-year warranty. Customers can obtain general information and assistance regarding Pronto by calling the Philips' toll-free Call Center at 1-888-486-6272 or visit the Web site at http://www.pronto.philips.com.

About Philips
Royal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands (NYSE: PHG) is one of the world's biggest electronics companies and Europe's largest, with sales of $33.5 billion (EUR 31.5 billion) in 1999. It is a global leader in color television sets, lighting, electric shavers, color picture tubes for televisions and monitors, and one-chip TV products. Its 232,433 employees in more than 60 countries are active in the areas of lighting, consumer electronics, domestic appliances, components, semiconductors, medical systems, and IT services (Origin). Philips is quoted on the NYSE (symbol: PHG), London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam and other stock exchanges. News from Philips is located at http://www.news.philips.com.
[Talk about the Pronto & RC5000...]