Planetweb Announces Browser Version
2.0
It's
true. Surfing the web on the Dreamcast won't suck for long. Get the
specifics right here.
March 6, 2000
Planetweb
today officially announced the release of its update to the
Dreamcast browser, version 2.0. The browser will feature a variety
of new Internet enhancements for the Dreamcast, and is expected to
be released during E3 2000 in May.
"We have brought advanced Internet functions such as more
efficient browsing, parental control, email, chat, secure socket
layer (SSL) for e-commerce, and easy-to-use navigation to Sega
Dreamcast since its introduction," said Ken Soohoo, co-founder and
CEO of Planetweb. "With this upgrade, web developers will have the
opportunity to bring more creative Internet content to Sega
Dreamcast, while gamers will be able to take advantage of even more
interactive elements available on the Internet."
Among the list of new features for 2.0 are:
MP3
Remarkably enough, Dreamcast users will have the
ability to listen to MP3 audio files with the release of 2.0.
Reportedly, gamers will also eventually have the ability to download
MP3's to removable storage devices.
Flash 3.0
Full flash support for Dreamcast means no
more blank boxes when loading sites on your Dreamcast that feature
Flash. Users will have full ability to view and participate in all
of the cool visual possibilities that come with Flash.
PNG
2.0 will also support viewing of PNG advanced
graphics features, such as alpha-bending and tight compression.
JavaScript Upgrades
The new 2.0 JavaScript upgrades
will allow Dreamcast internet goers improved Javascript
functionality. Things that weren't viewable or workable before will
be now.
Force Feedback
2.0 will give web and online game
developers the ability to create "interactive sensations", as it
were, for websites. Designated actions will trigger the feedback
function of the forced feedback unit -- All online and in real time.
Visual Memory Unit (VMU)
The new browser will give
Dreamcast users increased mobility with their VMUs, as soon the
ability to transfer files directly to and from websites with your
VMU will exist. In addition, developers will be able to create
Dreamcast-specific code in websites that causes custom displays to
occure on the VMU's screen in real time.
"As Sega moves forward into a critical year, we are looking for
products and services that will provide Sega Dreamcast Network
consumers with as much value-add as possible," said Peter Moore,
senior vice president, Sega of America. "The improvements made to
the Planetweb browser, including the addition of MP3 compatibility,
will enable us to take gaming to the next level. The complete
Internet gaming experience is right around the corner and Sega is
the only company that will bring it to the gaming community."
Look for more on the new 2.0 web browser come E3.
-- Matt White, version
1.1
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