Kevin Bostic
The set-top box segment occupied by Apple TV and others may get a lot more crowded in the coming weeks, as Microsoft has announced a date for the unveiling of its next generation Xbox console, while Amazon is rumored to be pondering a step into the TV arena as well.
via Kotaku
Wednesday brought a notice from Microsoft inviting media outlets to a May 21 event on the Xbox campus. The invitation touts "a new generation revealed," and says the event will include a special unveiling.
As Sony did with its PlayStation 4, Microsoft is taking the wraps off of its next-generation console in a special event rather than waiting until this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles. A blog post from Microsoft spokesman Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb, though, notes that Microsoft will "continue the conversation and showcase our full lineup of blockbuster games" at E3.
The rumor machine has been in full swing regarding the capabilities of the successor to the Xbox 360. Prior leaks have pointed to eye-tracking technology, as well as deep integration with a user's television set. Microsoft is thought to be positioning the device as a living room hub, tying together a user's television, gaming, Internet, and mobile experiences.
Meanwhile, Internet retail giant Amazon is also said to be plotting a foray into the set-top box segment. Amazon's alleged internet-connected device would connect to televisions, providing users with access to Amazon's video services, sources familiar with the device told Bloomberg.
The box is said to be being developed by Amazon's Lab126 division. The Cupertino-based Lab126 has been working on connected television devices for some time, sources say.
The move would bring Amazon into competition with Microsoft's planned gaming console, but also with Apple's Apple TV. Now described by Apple execs as a "beloved hobby," the Apple TV has for years been the company's foothold in the living room. Apple is widely thought to be working on either an update to the Apple TV that would see it gain enhanced capabilities, or a completely new standalone television.
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19 Comments
I want to get excited, but I think I've finally outgrown the console phase
I grew up in the 80s, and had an Atari 7800. Over the years, I got more into PC gaming (especially in high school and college), then after college, I got into the Xbox 360. But all of the RRODs turned me off to the platform. So I bought a PS3 which was soon joined by a Nintendo Wii. As the years went on, the PS3 was only used as a Blu-ray player and the Wii just collected dust.
Long story short, I'm in in my early thirties now -- marriage, work, a kid, and other responsibilities leave me no time to get "lost" in console gaming anymore. My brain only has enough "energy" to muster playing casual games on my iPhone these days.
Xcellent!
Can't wait. Now that I'm approaching 40, married with 2 kids its just another opportunity to spoil them with new gaming tech and at the same time let me get my hands on it too. Too old for games!?! GTFO
The X-Box is one of the few things Microsoft does right. However this could change if they impliment this "Always On" garbage that's been rumored.
[quote name="irnchriz" url="/t/157169/microsoft-to-unveil-xbox-successor-on-may-21-as-amazon-mulls-set-top-box#post_2316618"]Can't wait. Now that I'm approaching 40, married with 2 kids its just another opportunity to spoil them with new gaming tech and at the same time let me get my hands on it too. Too old for games!?! GTFO[/quote] Not when the game is Gears of War.