8 January 2007
Microsoft has announced its plans to transform its Xbox 360 console a machine that will work as a set-top box for tuning in to internet protocol TV (IPTV), recording programmes like a TiVo and downloading video on demand.
Xbox 360 users can already play music, play video-games, download entire games and patches to update their current ones, watch DVDs and enjoy voice and web-cam chats.
The technology giant believes that by adding digital TV to this extensive list, it will become the epitome of home entertainments systems.
Chairman Bill Gates made the announcement at this year's annual International Consumer Electronics Show and commented: "It's amazing to see the progress over the course of the year. Truly the digital decade is happening. We see it everywhere we look."
Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft's entertainment and devices division, commented on the fact that the company has already been using the technology within the Microsoft TV IPTV Edition and that while the Xbox 360 would remain a games console primarily, this progression would benefit current and new customers.
"Both Xbox 360 and Microsoft TV IPTV Edition by themselves deliver unique and exciting entertainment experiences today, but IPTV on Xbox 360 is truly a solution that is greater than the sum of its parts and will enable even more exciting experiences to delight consumers, service providers, content providers and game developers alike," he said.
The technology is predicted to be made widely available in the US some time in winter 2007, with a UK launch soon after.
Cable or satellite? What about Freeview? See what digital TV package would work best for you and what's available in your area by using the uSwitch.com comparison and switching service. Compare digital TV providers and switch in minutes.