VISTA, Calif., Sept. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Directed Electronics is proud to announce that it is working with Microsoft Corporation to develop a version of Directed's award-winning Viper SmartStart app for Microsoft's Windows Phone 7. The product should be widely available for Windows Phone users later in the year.

The vast potential of the new app on the powerful Windows Phone 7 platform was demonstrated today at Microsoft's sold-out BUILD Conference, which is taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center through September 16.

"We're very excited about partnering with Microsoft to extend Viper SmartStart products to the Windows Phone 7 platform," said Mike Simmons, Executive VP of Directed Electronics. "Our developers were able to quickly bring the app to Windows Phone 7 because they are so familiar with the Microsoft environment. We look forward to collaborating with Microsoft in other areas, including jointly developing advanced solutions for the cloud connected car."

"Viper SmartStart has been on our radar screen for Windows Phone 7 since it launched," said Jeff Sandquist, Senior Director of Developer Relations for Microsoft. "The app has changed the way smartphone users interact with their vehicles, and Microsoft is very pleased that this innovative app will be available to millions of Windows Phone users."

About Directed Electronics and Viper SmartStart

For nearly 30 years, Directed Electronics and its famous Viper brand have been world leaders in automotive electronics. Viper protects and remote starts more vehicles than anyone else on the planet.

Recipient of hundreds of technology patents and awards, including the Best of Innovations Award at the International Consumer Electronics Show, Viper created the smartphone car control category and is leading the keyless lifestyle revolution with Viper SmartStart, which has been downloaded more than one million times. Viper SmartStart and Viper SmartStart GPS allow users to affordably start, lock, unlock, locate and monitor their vehicle – all using their smartphone. The company is based in Southern California.

www.directed.com

SOURCE Directed Electronics