Remembering once more it can do more than Service Packs, Microsoft has now launched a trio of peripheral which includes two webcams, the LifeCam VX-5000 and VX-500, and a headset dubbed LifeChat LX-2000. The focus point of Microsoft's announcement is the LifeCam VX-5000, a webcam which is set to work with almost any old desktop or notebook with a free USB 2.0/1.1 port and can record at 640x480 pixels and take 1.3 megapixel still photos. The camera also features a built-in unidirectional microphone with acoustic noise cancellation, 3x digital zoom and even a Windows LiveCall Button, which allows users to open their Contact Picker quickly and easily.

"With the LifeCam VX-5000 we are changing the perception of webcams from boring and bulky to fun and flexible," said Michael Cowan, product marketing manager for the Hardware Division at Microsoft. "We designed this LifeCam to match the experience its technology delivers — it’s all about fun and letting consumers share their personalities."

As for the other two released, the LifeCam VX-500 and LifeChat LX-2000, will feature affordable prices and a decent build. The VX-500 is a compact VGA camera that looks like a cut down version of the VX-5000 while the LX-2000 is a full-size headset which should offer good performance for music, gaming, online chatting and more.

The LifeCam VX-500 and LifeChat LX-2000 are slated to hit the stores later this month with prices of $16.95 and $29.95 respectively. The LifeCam VX-5000 will arrive next month and cost $49.95.


LifeCam VX-5000