MUMBAI: VTech(R) Communications, Inc. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of VTech Holdings Ltd. HKSE: 303; ADR: VTKHY, and the largest U.S. cordless phone manufacturer), today announced availability of the IS9181, a feature-rich Wi-Fi music streaming device designed as a complete music hub for the home. Available online now at www.vtechphones.com, the IS9181 (MSRP: $199.95) extends the company's core leadership in innovative cordless phone systems to the wireless home audio arena.

The IS9181 takes Internet radio enjoyment to a new level beyond the PC listening experience with a device that delivers better sound quality than other similarly priced offerings. VTech's streaming music hub offers built-in 3W front-facing tuned stereo speakers, as well as a 10W subwoofer with class D amplifiers for a powerful bass response. Once users connect the IS9181 to any wireless network (802.11 b & g), they can enjoy a variety of music offerings from more than 11,000 free Internet radio stations worldwide.

If connected at home, users also can access audio files (MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, Real) stored on their Wi-Fi-enabled PCs or Macs. For more music flexibility, the IS9181 also includes an auxiliary audio cable to play files from digital audio and CD players or any other device with a 3.5mm headset jack. It also can be connected to other audio systems/speakers via RCA connections.

"VTech has a proven track record in wireless innovation for the home, and we are now bringing that technology leadership to this unique home audio device," said Matt Ramage, senior vice president of product management, VTech Communications, Inc. "The IS9181 offers all the benefits of Internet radio and streaming music in a competitively-priced, all-in-one device."

For 'virtual' music exploration, IS9181 users can search for stations by country, state or genre using the one-touch access button or remote control, or by visiting the comprehensive online music guide offered on www.vtechphones.com. The IS9181 un-tethers music lovers from their computers with sound quality unparalleled by PCs so digital music from around the globe can be enjoyed in the living room, bedroom or anywhere in the home.

Music has been a part of the VTech brand for many years. The company has combined its wireless innovation with an understanding of consumer music tastes gleaned through sponsorship of a variety of concerts, music events and festivals nationwide. To promote the coming launch of the IS9181, VTech recently presented the "Timeless Concert Series" in conjunction with music production company Mochilla. The three-part series in Los Angeles paid homage to arrangers and composers from around the world that have influenced hip-hop since the 1970s. VTech also sponsors special events at the annual South by Southwest Music Conference in Austin and the Winter Music Conference in Miami. The company will also sponsor the Playboy Jazz Festival in Los Angeles as well as the VooDoo Music Experience in New Orleans later this year.

IS9181 Key Features

In addition to multiple music options, the IS9181 offers localized weather (based on zip code) and a full-color LCD for easy viewing.

Other key features of the IS9181 include:

Best-in-class 802.11 digital Wi-Fi technology, providing superior range and streaming rates

Internet radio streaming from 11,000 stations; ability to search for any stations that stream online

Internet radio station search from VTech's site or on the device itself

Ability to preset favorites on the product or online

PC or Mac-stored MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, Real music file playing

Ability to connect an MP3 player or any audio device with a 3.5mm headset jack using the provided cord

Ability to connect the IS9181 (via RCA connections) to other audio systems for streaming access

Internal 2.1 speakers

Convenient remote to browse, select and control music from across the room

AC Power Adapter

Battery-operated option (requires six AA batteries, not included)

MSRP: $199.95

One-year limited warranty