Akoo Introduces Kima Wireless Audio Device

Akoo.com (http://www.akoo.com) today finally unveiled the Kima, its wireless consumer-level appliance for listening to streaming audio.

Kima is a wireless device that can deliver Internet audio to a radio up to 1,000 feet away. It is comprised of two units: a base unit that connects to a PC's sound card and the receiving unit which is placed near a stereo or radio. Kima is compatible with any streaming media player, including RealNetworks, Windows Media and QuickTime as well as MP3.

"Akoo.com's wireless technology revolutionizes users' access to Internet audio," said Niko Drakoulis, president and CEO. "And, unlike any other technology on the market, Kima can be used with a $10,000 home entertainment system or a $10 clock/radio."

The Kima is the second wireless audio device released. Sonicbox released its device called the IM Tuner in late July 2000. Another competitor, Kerbango, has yet to release its Internet audio device. Despite its vaporware status, Kerbango was purchased by networking giant 3Com in June for about $80 million.

Unlike the Sonicbox, the Kima doesn't come with a remote control. Akoo says that a remote control unit for the Kima will be introduced in the first quarter of 2001.

Kima retails for $149.95 and can be purchased from the company's web site