Microsoft signs significant multi-year deal with benchmark software developer Saratoga, CA - May 16th, 2006 - Futuremark, creators of world's most widely used benchmarks for PCs and handhelds, today announced they have signed a deal with Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ "MSFT"). The contract covers online services and performance analysis tools in support of Microsoft Windows XP and the upcoming Windows Vista operating systems. Financial details related to the venture have not been disclosed. Futuremark currently provides online services for Microsoft, including the highly successful Windows Game Advisor. The new contract continues provision of the current online services and will expand the offering with a new web application that has yet to be announced. Futuremark will also independently be developing comparative performance tools for use on Windows Vista. Futuremark has been providing benchmarking tools for the PC market since 1997, leveraging that experience and IP in their web based performance analysis services. Game Advisor, first launched in 2003, utilizes Futuremark's core competency in system comparisons and their database of system performance profiles. The service has furnished millions of consumers with free, real time system compatibility for hundreds of 3D game titles, and makes hardware upgrade recommendations based on individual title requirements. Microsoft has worked with game publishers, and PC manufacturers to populate the Futuremark managed service. The deal announced today ensures further development of Game Advisor, along with expanding services to new application areas within the Windows Marketplace "As a leader in benchmarking and professional performance analysis tools, and a well-known brand among 3D gaming enthusiasts - especially the 3DMark suite of tools --, Futuremark was a natural choice for Microsoft to partner with on the Game Advisor." Mike Wehrs, director of business development, at Microsoft said. "We are proud of our growing relationship with Microsoft, and extremely pleased to expand it through this mutually beneficial deal" said Tero Sarkkinen, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Futuremark. "Our current services are a great value for Microsoft and the global community of active and casual gamers alike. We're excited to furnish those services in new markets and participate in the much anticipated release of Windows Vista."