Microsoft today released to the Web (RTW) Silverlight 1.0, a cross-browser, cross-platform plug-in for delivering richer user experiences on the Web.

In addition, Microsoft will work with Novell to deliver Silverlight support for Linux, called Moonlight, and based on the project started on mono-project.com.

Silverlight reduces development and deployment costs and provides enhanced Web audio and video streaming and playback using Windows Media Technologies. Microsoft unveiled new Silverlight customer experiences on "Entertainment Tonight," HSN and World Wrestling Entertainment, and also launched the Silverlight Partner Initiative, a program designed to foster collaboration among solution providers, content delivery networks, tools vendors and design agencies.

"With today?s release of Silverlight 1.0, we?re making it possible for developers and designers to deliver to individuals the kind of high-def experiences they crave by integrating data and services in rich and unique ways. Silverlight will further accelerate the growth in rich interactive applications by giving developers and designers new options for delivering great experiences that span the Web, PC, phone and other devices," said Ray Ozzie, Microsoft?s chief software architect.

Those wanting more information or to download Microsoft Silverlight 1.0 and Expression Encoder should visit http://www.silverlight.net. At IBC2007 in Amsterdam Sept. 7?11, Microsoft will provide demonstrations of Silverlight 1.0, and Expression Encoder at the Topaz stand.