Posted by Daniel Tonks on July 3, 2006 at 1:00 AM
Vague details from several sources have recently begun to surface on a new Philips Pronto model in the works, likely to be officially introduced during CEDIA Expo 2006 (held this coming September).
The first piece of the puzzle comes in the form of the CEDIA Expo 2006 brochure. On page 57, listed amongst the various training seminars that Expo attendees can register for, you'll find this juicy description for a Philips course titled Introducing the New Pronto Professional (code MPT379).
It reads "It's finally here! Philips is proud to introduce the new Pronto Professional. Designed by installers, built by Philips, the new TSU9600 Pronto, coupled with new extenders (RFX9400, RFX9600) provides levels of customization and sophistication never experienced by something so easy to use." Also available is a second, more advanced course, Deep Dive - New Pronto Professional (code MPT380).
The next puzzle piece is a teaser advertisement from Philips themselves on both their Pronto website and the July issue of CE Pro (an excellent publication catering to the custom installation market). It's this advertisement that also gives us our first, albeit limited, glimpse of the new remote. The ad copy reads:
What if......you had a home entertainment control solution that redefined reliability and efficiency?
More possibilities for home control mean more business opportunities for you. The new Philips Pronto brings you more.
Under the skin of the stunning new Philips Pronto, you'll find a control solution that goes beyond entertainment. Unparalled IR capability, ultra-reliable wireless extenders, and more functionality for multi-room solutions. It's designed for fast and efficient programming, simplicity of operation and absolute reliability to reduce your service call out rate as well as save time during installation.
When Pronto was introduced 8 years ago, it single-handedly created a new concept of home control convenience. The latest generation will take this concept to a higher level...
Want even more details? Well, you're going to have to wait - this is everything that's available right now! Interested individuals can opt to sign up for Philips' mailing list for new Pronto information. Of course, we'll be attending CEDIA Expo this year and will be sure to return with everything you need to know about the Pronto Professional. Counting the days...
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