Wave Systems Corp. (fka WAVXQ)

[barge]

bowWAVE--Hasn't S. Sprague emphasized that Trusted Computing on the consumer would begin with Virtual Private Networks(VPN's)? Well, that is exactly how Phantom defines itself.

"What is the Black Knight Network?
This is their Virtual Private Gaming Network (VPGN). It allows you to connect your Phantom via a broadband connection to an integrated service. Where you will download the content directly and participate in the Phantom online community."

Here a few more interesting excerpts:

"Is it available now?
No, the system is still in development. Beta testing should begin by or before the end of the year. And an official release date is not yet available. However it is expected to be available by or before Q2 2004."

"Will the Phantom be available outside the United States?
The initial launch will be within the U.S. Followed later by an international release."






http://www.phantomsource.com/faq.html

Phantom FAQ
Updated - 11/20/2003


What is the Phantom?
The Phantom is a game platform similar to console gaming systems. It is an Always-On Broadband device.


Who created it?
The system is being developed by Infinium Labs. The company was founded by Tim Roberts (Chairman and CEO) and Rob Shambro (Executive VP).


Is it available now?
No, the system is still in development. Beta testing should begin by or before the end of the year. And an official release date is not yet available. However it is expected to be available by or before Q2 2004.


What type of games will it play?
Since the system is based upon similar-to-PC technology it will play existing and future games from established developers.


Who is making games for the Phantom and how many will there be?
50 to 100 games are expected to come as pack-ins with the game system when you purchase it. Many titles will be available for purchase upon the Phantoms release. However licensing is currently in process and until finalized we will not know specificly all the developers who have signed on. Currently Riverdeep is the only officially released software distribution partner.


What type of media will games be released on (i.e. CD, DVD)?
This is where it gets interesting. There are no plans for removeable media devices. The system will leverage Broadband technology to deliver "games on demand, game rentals, game demos, seamless upgrades and patch management". All through Infinium Labs' Black Knight Network.


What is the Black Knight Network?
This is their Virtual Private Gaming Network (VPGN). It allows you to connect your Phantom via a broadband connection to an integrated service. Where you will download the content directly and participate in the Phantom online community.


Can I play multiplayer games online or take my Phantom to a LAN party?
Yes you will be able to access online play through the Black Knight network. LAN connectivity is supported so you will be able to bring your Phantom to a LAN party!


Do I have to use a broadband connection?
Although no official statement has been made it is implied that Dial-UP access is not supported.


So do I have to download the game every time I want to play it?
The Phantom has an internal Hard Drive which will store downloaded content. And storage expansion is optional although the details of this have not been made available. It has also been said that your purchases will be stored on Infinium Labs servers should you need to download them again.


Will there be a charge for access to the Black Knight Network?
Yes, at this time the expected fee is $9.95 / month. Content purchases should range from $2 to $50.


Where can I find the specs?
Check out the latest Spec sheet under the link to this FAQ on Phantomsource.com. However since the Phantom has not yet begun production these specs are subject to change.


Why is there all this talk about Gen1 and Gen2 Phantoms. Will there be two different systems?
The Gen1 Phantom is essentially the prototype. When released it will be the much smaller Gen2 model, With the following dimensions. G-2: 12-1/8" W x 3-3/4" H x 12-3/4" D


I heard that the Phantom can be upgraded, can I do the upgrades?
No, the Phantom must be upgraded by Infinium Labs or a yet to be specified authorized dealer.


Where will I be able to buy one?
The Phantom will be available Direct through Phantom.net, Broadband Service Providers, Strategic Affiliates and key strategic retailers world wide.


Will the Phantom be available outside the United States?
The initial launch will be within the U.S. Followed later by an international release.


I live outside the United States can I still buy one and play it before the international release?
Technically yes, you should be able to buy a Phantom meant for the U.S. market and access the Black Knight Network from outside the U.S. However until Infinium Labs has partneres with broadband providers in your region, some lag is to be expected.


How much will the Phantom itself cost?
The price for the base model is projected to be $299.


Ok, but there are those who say it's a hoax.
The hoax theory was perpetuated by those who formed early opinions based on incomplete and incorrect information.