CES 2011: Biscotti turns TV into videophone

Biscotti is showcasing a device that lets users make high definition calls using just their HDTV and Wi-Fi connection.

Biscotti TV Phone, which is being shown at International CES 2012, is a single device that sits atop a TV and allows users to make high-definition calls to anyone, anywhere in the world using only their HDTV and Wi-Fi. Biscotti can make free calls to other Biscotti, and to any computer, iPhone, iPad or Android device supporting Google video chat, including Gmail and Google Apps accounts. Thanks to Biscotti’s unique ability to pass through video from cable or satellite boxes, users can receive calls while watching TV ‚ all without the need to switch inputs. ‚Biscotti is designed for people who value real-life, personal interaction. It’s a single-purpose, dedicated TV Phone that’s always ready to connect, so you can make and receive calls without interrupting your lifestyle,‚ said Dr. Matthew B. Shoemake, Biscotti’s CEO and Founder. ‚HDTVs are selling faster than any other consumer electronics product on the market, fueling the demand for high definition video calling. By 2015, we’re predicting 25% of homes will be making high-definition video calls daily.‚ Biscotti TV Phone connects to HDTVs via HDMI cable. Initial set-up takes minutes, during which users customise their personal profile, creating a unique Biscotti ID and inviting Biscotti and Google contacts to chat. Once connected to Wi-Fi, Biscotti is always ready to instantly make calls, notifying users of incoming calls while they are watching TV via a pop-up message on screen, or if no one is home, turning the TV on/off for each incoming call (compatible TVs only). Users can also designate specific contacts that will cause the TV to automatically answer, a great feature for home security or ensuring you can always reach someone. The Innovations Design and Engineering Awards are sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and have been recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976. The Best of Innovations honour is awarded to the products with the highest judges’ scores and will be featured in the Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase at the 2012 International CES. The Innovations entries are judged based on the following criteria: ‚Ä¢ Engineering qualities, based on technical specs and materials used ‚Ä¢ Aesthetic and design qualities ‚Ä¢ The product’s intended use/function and user value ‚Ä¢ Unique/novel features that consumers would find attractive ‚Ä¢ How the design and innovation of the product compares to other products in the marketplace

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