Microsoft have published a white paper detailing Design Guidelines for Networked Media Devices in Windows 7. It looks like moving content around the home is going to take a big step forward in Windows 7 with Media Center, HomeGroup and Windows Media Player 12

 NetMediaDevices_ Cert.docx

This paper describes requirements and recommendations for building Network Media Devices that work well with the Windows 7 operating system. Consumers want their personal media collections available throughout their homes. To enable consumers to unlock the potential of their Windows PCs and enjoy widespread media access, personal and premium content must flow smoothly between Windows PCs and networked media devices.

This paper describes the Media Sharing functionality in Windows 7, and the Windows logo requirements that are associated with network media devices, so that manufacturers of networked media devices can develop products that are highly interoperable with Windows.

This information applies for the Windows 7 operating system.

Included in this white paper:

•A Brief History of Home Media Entertainment

•Scenarios

•Overview of Networked Media Device Roles for Windows 7

•Building a Great Network Media Device

•Building a Great Digital Media Renderer

•Building a Great Digital Media Server

•Building a Great Digital Media Controller