Optimized Footprint Makes AuthorScript(R) CE 6 the Ideal Burning and Playback Solution for Next Generation Set-top Devices

Sonic Solutions(R) (NASDAQ:SNIC) unveiled today AuthorScript CE 6, a major breakthrough in bringing the power and performance of PC-based DVD and CD creation and playback technology to lower-cost consumer electronics (CE) devices. Coupling all of the power, features, and flexibility that system manufacturers have come to expect from Sonic, with a significant optimization in size and processor performance, AuthorScript CE 6 is the ideal solution for next-generation DVRs with built-in DVD recording capabilities and other DVD- and CD-enabled CE devices.

"Multifunction CE devices are hot and competition is intense, driving system manufacturers to add advanced PC-like functionality to their products while being mindful of cost," said Jim Taylor, general manager of Sonic's Advanced Technology Group. "For these manufacturers, AuthorScript CE 6 is the ideal solution, providing all of the benefits of our industry-leading DVD and CD recording and playback technology in a memory footprint suitable for cost-sensitive CE devices. And with Sonic's unique leadership position in DVD, we can ensure that our customers are on the leading edge of new developments such as dual-layer recording, enhanced interactivity, and upcoming, next-generation HD optical formats."

With its elegant API (application programmer's interface) and flexible architecture, AuthorScript CE 6 allows CE developers to quickly integrate DVD and CD recording and playback features in their devices and accelerate the speed at which their products come to market. AuthorScript CE 6 also significantly reduces internal development costs by enabling engineers to concentrate on core products while Sonic handles the complexities of the DVD and CD formats and ensures compatibility with new burning and playback devices.

With an economical RAM requirement, AuthorScript CE 6 allows CE manufacturers to achieve aggressive price points by using less memory in their devices. As with all AuthorScript products, AuthorScript CE 6 is OpenDVD(R) compliant for compatibility across a broad range of platforms, devices, and applications. AuthorScript works on popular hardware platforms including Intel, SPARC, and MIPS-based processors and multiple operating systems including Linux, Windows, Windows CE, and Power TV. AuthorScript CE 6 supports all popular DVD and CD formats and media types.

AuthorScript CE 6 will be available in the second quarter of 2005 to developers looking to include advanced DVD functionality in their CE products. For additional information, developers can e-mail authorscript@sonic.com or call 415-893-7083.