In this early peek at Apple's potential Media Center competitor, I examine Front Row, which provides remote control-friendly access to your digital photos, music, and videos! Earlier this month, at a special event in San Jose, Apple unveiled its third generation iMac G5, a consumer oriented desktop computer that combines a mid-level PowerPC G5 microprocessor with an all-in-one design that, in typical Apple fashion, has redefined computer style and design. According to Apple, the new iMac G5 includes three great new features: It is even thinner than its predecessor, it includes an integrated iSight video camera, and it ships with an exclusive digital media environment called Front Row, which can be controlled via a bundled remote control. The Front Row software is what I'm concerned about today, because many people--myself included--have described Front Row as a Media Center rip-off.

Paul Thurrott Windows SuperSite