Is Microsoft about to roll out a brand new consumer product? Word is out that the company has begun a review for an estimated US$300 million consumer creative assignment for what Microsoft is claiming is a brand new consumer product.

Current agency McCann Erickson, which is the agency of record for most of Microsoft's business, is pitching. One other shop believed to be among the contenders is MDC's Crispin Porter & Bogusky. "We are soliciting input from various agencies, including McCann Erickson, for a new upcoming consumer-oriented assignment," a Microsoft spokesman said.

"It doesn't affect any current assignments."

Some say it is for their Home Server while other rumours claim that Microsoft is set to role out a dedicated home entertainment management centre. Media for this new assignment will be handled by Universal McCann, the spokesman said.