Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Microsoft sells Mediaroom to Ericsson, pulls focus to Xbox TV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/microsoft-sells-mediaroom-to-ericsson-pulls-focus-to-xbox-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/microsoft-sells-mediaroom-to-ericsson-pulls-focus-to-xbox-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/microsoft-sells-mediaroom-to-ericsson-pulls-focus-to-xbox-tv/#comments Microsoft sells media room to EriccsonMicrosoft's Mediaroom IPTV business now belongs to communication tech company Ericsson, allowing Microsoft to focus its attention fully on the Xbox.

"With the sale of Mediaroom, Microsoft is dedicating all TV resources to Xbox in a continued mission to make it the premium entertainment service that delivers all the games and entertainment consumers want - whether on a console, phone, PC or tablet," Microsoft Vice President Yusuf Mehdi writes in a blog post.

Mehdi writes that Microsoft will partner with a range of content creators, studios, networks, labels and distributors for the next generation of TV, made "more simple, tailored and intelligent." Mediaroom is the tech behind AT&T's U-Verse, Telefonica and Swisscom, among other services, and powers 22 million set top boxes worldwide.

Continue reading Microsoft sells Mediaroom to Ericsson, pulls focus to Xbox TV

JoystiqMicrosoft sells Mediaroom to Ericsson, pulls focus to Xbox TV originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ericssonIPTVmediaroommicrosoftsaletvxboxMon, 08 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reuters: Microsoft's TV subscription plans 'on hold']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/reuters-microsofts-tv-subscription-plans-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/reuters-microsofts-tv-subscription-plans-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/reuters-microsofts-tv-subscription-plans-on-hold/#comments After years of hearing about Microsoft's poorly hidden plans for offering streaming TV subscriptions through the Xbox 360 (among other devices), Reuters is reporting that those very plans are currently stuck in a holding pattern. According to "people familiar with the discussions," Microsoft built out an infrastructure for delivering television, but upon finding out how much it would cost to deliver currently broadcast-exclusive content, walked away from talks.

"They built Microsoft TV, they demoed it for us, they asked for rate cards but then said 'ooh ah, that's expensive,'" the piece quotes one "senior media executive" as saying with regards to the negotiations. That doesn't mean that the plans are a total wash, just that they're currently not progressing.

Still, some avenues for live television are currently available and coming soon to Microsoft's Xbox 360, including a limited selection from several cable providers, as well as the just announced partnership with Newscorp which will bring Fox News, The Wall Street Journal and more to the console.

Update: Microsoft has issued this statement regarding the Reuters report, "We don't comment on rumors and speculation. Microsoft is committed to working with the world's leading TV and entertainment providers to bring their offerings to Xbox and transform the TV experience with the power of Kinect. We are continuing to launch the more than 40 new entertainment partners we have already announced, including a wide range of live and on-demand TV on Xbox. Moving forward, you can expect to see more of the world's leading entertainment providers coming to Xbox."

JoystiqReuters: Microsoft's TV subscription plans 'on hold' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iptvkinectlive-televisionmicrosoftreportretuersstreaming-televisionweb-tvxboxThu, 12 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T offering credit to Uverse subscribers for Xbox Live Gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/atandt-offering-credit-to-uverse-subscribers-for-xbox-live-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/atandt-offering-credit-to-uverse-subscribers-for-xbox-live-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/atandt-offering-credit-to-uverse-subscribers-for-xbox-live-gold/#comments AT&T customer notice We already knew that some of the new services coming to Microsoft's Xbox 360 TV service would require an Xbox Live Gold subscription but, according to a Giant Bomb tipster, it looks like some previously Silver services will soon be turning Gold as well. One company apparently making the alchemical leap is AT&T U-verse, which will require Xbox Live Gold starting this November.

The company is apparently sending notice of the change to its customers and offering a one-time $60 bill credit in order to soften the blow. In theory, the $60 saved on your AT&T bill can be applied towards an Xbox Live Gold subscription. Of course, if you already have Gold - a likely possibility given the effort required to get U-verse on the ol' Xbox - it sounds like you'll have an extra sixty bucks to play with next month.

[Image: Giant Bomb]

JoystiqAT&T offering credit to Uverse subscribers for Xbox Live Gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attatt-uverseiptvkinectmicrosoftu-verseuversexboxxbox-360-tvxbox-livexbox-live-tvxbox-tvFri, 07 Oct 2011 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Bloomberg: Xbox Live getting Comcast, Verizon access; expects HBO, Crackle, Bravo, Syfy, Lovefilm, and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/bloomberg-xbox-live-getting-comcast-verizon-access-expects-hb/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/bloomberg-xbox-live-getting-comcast-verizon-access-expects-hb/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/bloomberg-xbox-live-getting-comcast-verizon-access-expects-hb/#comments A report earlier this month said that Microsoft's upcoming "Live TV" service -- part of the Xbox 360's upcoming Dashboard refresh -- would feature pay television service from the likes of Comcast and Verizon, who have 22.5 million and 3.8 million TV subscribers, respectively. Now, the far more reputable Bloomberg is reporting the same, citing "people with knowledge of the situation."

"Microsoft [...] is in talks with almost two dozen providers of music, sports, movies and TV shows in the U.S. and Europe, and may announce an expanded Xbox Live streaming service as soon as next week, said one of the people, who weren't authorized to speak publicly," Bloomberg reports. But it's not just Comcast and Verizon. Microsoft also "expects to sign deals with Time Warner Inc. (TWX)'s HBO cable channel, Sony Pictures Entertainment's Crackle streaming service, NBC Universal's Bravo and Syfy channels and Lovefilm UK, a subsidiary of Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN)," one of Bloomberg's sources says.

Overall, Microsoft is "in talks with almost two dozen providers of music, sports, movies and TV shows in the U.S. and Europe" and it could announce the fruits of those negotiations "as soon as next week." Two of Bloomberg's sources say that existing customers of both Comcast and Verizon will only need to prove they are pay-TV customers to gain access to the services on the Xbox.

JoystiqBloomberg: Xbox Live getting Comcast, Verizon access; expects HBO, Crackle, Bravo, Syfy, Lovefilm, and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bravocomcastdashboard-updatehboIPTVlive-tvlovefilmmicrosoftnew-dashsyfyverizonxboxThu, 29 Sep 2011 11:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Fox Entertainment Group FCC filing points to new video service on consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fox-entertainment-group-fcc-filing-points-to-new-video-service-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fox-entertainment-group-fcc-filing-points-to-new-video-service-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fox-entertainment-group-fcc-filing-points-to-new-video-service-o/#comments According to some FCC documents that have surfaced online, yet another content streaming service could be headed to gaming consoles soon. A filing of an FCC call (PDF link) between the Fox Entertainment Group and a multichannel video programming distribution partner shows this partner's intent to broaden the platforms it offers content on -- a move that will see "its subscription and on-demand video services available directly to widely-marketed consumer electronics devices, such as game consoles" sometime in the "near future." Fox content would obviously be offered.

There isn't any evidence suggesting who the distribution partner is, but Gamasutra surmises it is a major cable, FiOS or satellite provider operating in the US. Currently, there are a wide range of streaming services on consoles: Netflix and Hulu Plus offer consumers video content on consoles, and AT&T's U-verse service has been available on Xbox 360 since October -- plus, let's not forget about Microsoft and Sony's built-in distribution systems on their respective platforms.

JoystiqFox Entertainment Group FCC filing points to new video service on consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 May 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fccfox-entertainment-groupiptvmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxMon, 16 May 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Xbox 360 getting new IPTV services this year, codenamed 'Orapa']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/rumor-xbox-360-getting-new-iptv-services-this-year-codenamed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/rumor-xbox-360-getting-new-iptv-services-this-year-codenamed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/rumor-xbox-360-getting-new-iptv-services-this-year-codenamed/#comments According to "some reliable tipster types" speaking with ZDNet, Microsoft may be adding some new features to IPTV on the Xbox 360. The various tipsters specifically named "Orapa" -- a Botswanan city known for its enormous diamond mine -- as the codename for said project. Allegedly, Microsoft has plans to combine Xbox Live and its Mediaroom IPTV service, said to be heading to the Xbox 360 first with Windows/Windows Phone 7/set-top box following.

Orapa is said to incorporate "Xbox Live social features (like Avatars and recommendations)," and "Kinect sensing capabilities," as well as another rumored Microsoft project -- a video/music service codenamed "Ventura."

And if the rumors are correct, the service could be available by later this year -- ZDNet speculates that we could even see a test preview some time this month, though we're not holding our breath. Sources also indicate a "holiday 2011" launch, so we'll find out if this is all smoke has any fire behind it.

JoystiqRumor: Xbox 360 getting new IPTV services this year, codenamed 'Orapa' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iptvmediaroommicrosoftorapapcxboxThu, 10 Mar 2011 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Conan O'Brien on Xbox Live was too big a 'leap of faith,' says show's producer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/conan-obrien-on-xbox-live-was-too-big-a-leap-of-faith-says-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/conan-obrien-on-xbox-live-was-too-big-a-leap-of-faith-says-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/conan-obrien-on-xbox-live-was-too-big-a-leap-of-faith-says-s/#comments During the "Hollywood Creative Masters" session at CES last month, the executive producer of Conan O'Brien's show, Jeff Ross, spoke on last April's short-lived rumor of talks to relaunch the show on a proposed Xbox Live channel (before the deal was made to bring Conan to TBS), reports Gamasutra contributor Chris Morris (who moderated the CES session). While Ross said it was "interesting to sit and look at it," Microsoft's proposal lacked a clear vision, and he recalled that "a lot of the conversations were, 'Well, it's a show, but it's not a show and there are no breaks, but maybe there are breaks and it's not 60 minutes -- it's this,' and nobody really knew what it was."

"So it was really going to be a leap of faith to jump in with these guys and figure something out which we didn't know," Ross said, later reiterating that "we had some eventual television offers and we basically shied away from the [Xbox thing]."

Last November, Reuters reported that Microsoft's plans for an Xbox Live "television channel" had taken a more conventional shape, with the company looking to license existing TV programming to stream though an Xbox Dashboard application, with a potential for interactive elements.

"I think it's coming and it's big," Ross said of a TV-type feature on Xbox Live, before concluding, "It's just that we weren't in a position at that point to figure out what it was."

[Photo credit: Team Coco]

JoystiqConan O'Brien on Xbox Live was too big a 'leap of faith,' says show's producer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ces-2011conanconan-o-brienconan-obrieniptvjeff-rossmicrosoftteam-cocotvxboxxbox-liveMon, 07 Feb 2011 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Reuters: Microsoft in talks to bring subscription TV, networks to Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/microsoft-in-talks-to-bring-subscription-tv-networks-to-xbox-li/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/microsoft-in-talks-to-bring-subscription-tv-networks-to-xbox-li/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/microsoft-in-talks-to-bring-subscription-tv-networks-to-xbox-li/#comments We heard some buzz back in April about Microsoft execs considering the addition of a "television channel" to Xbox Live, allowing subscribers to view reruns and original programming for an additional buck or two per month. Today, Reuters reports that a pair of unnamed insiders has claimed Microsoft has held meetings with various media companies to discuss licensing of television programs to be streamed through such an application.

These talks, according to the sources, have been productive (though the launch of an Xbox Live TV service could be as far as a year out) and have included the potential to add interactive elements into shows viewed through the console and a "content silos" option, so that users could select entire networks (e.g., HBO or Showtime) to subscribe to. We'd definitely want to see an AMC channel, so we could get our Breaking Bad Mad Men Walking Dead on. Oh! And TBS -- for Conan. In fact, we could totally get down with an "all the awesome shows that they don't have on Hulu for some reason" channel.

JoystiqReuters: Microsoft in talks to bring subscription TV, networks to Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>IPTVmicrosoftsubscriptiontelevisiontvxboxxbox-livexbox-live-tvMon, 29 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: watch how you'll watch TV on Xbox 360 U-verse]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/video-watch-how-youll-watch-tv-on-xbox-360-u-verse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/video-watch-how-youll-watch-tv-on-xbox-360-u-verse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/video-watch-how-youll-watch-tv-on-xbox-360-u-verse/#commentsFiled under: , ,

AT&T's demonstration video for the Xbox 360 U-Verse service (after the break) gives us a better idea of how the service works -- and what's in the mysterious hardware kit (a remote and some kind of receiver device). The presenter also describes the installation process, wherein the U-verse software is installed on the 360 via a CD, a process described as "super-easy." ProTip, AT&T: don't tell us that the installation we have to pay $55 for is "super-easy."

The interface shown in the video looks exactly like the UI for a normal U-verse receiver. The only perceptible difference, of course, is the appearance of Xbox Live notifications.

[Thanks, cool8man]

Continue reading Video: watch how you'll watch TV on Xbox 360 U-verse

JoystiqVideo: watch how you'll watch TV on Xbox 360 U-verse originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>att-uversecableiptvmicrosoftu-verseuversexboxTue, 12 Oct 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T finally dates U-verse on Xbox 360, coming Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/atandt-finally-dates-u-verse-on-xbox-360-coming-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/atandt-finally-dates-u-verse-on-xbox-360-coming-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/atandt-finally-dates-u-verse-on-xbox-360-coming-friday/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nearly four years after announcing that the Xbox 360 would support Microsoft's IPTV Mediaroom platform, and nine months after demoing AT&T's U-verse service running on the gaming console, AT&T has just announced "the Oct. 15 launch of U-verse TV on Xbox 360 for U-verse customers." Want to watch the U-verse service in your gaming dungeon, but don't have an extra receiver? Since the service requires an existing TV box in the household, that's about the only scenario (bedroom maybe?) we can imagine this being useful. If you do sign up, you get the undeniably cool benefit of being able to "receive chat and game invitations from friends through Xbox Live while watching live TV." Or you could wait until early next year and snag Hulu Plus.

Not so fast! In order to get U-verse on your Xbox 360, you'll need to first figure out what kind of customer you are. New customers will need to order the $99 Xbox kit (which doesn't include an Xbox ... in fact, we're not sure what it includes) when subscribing to the service. A U-verse "technician" will load the software onto your Xbox during installation of the service. If you're already a subscriber, Engadget reports that you'll need to buy the $99 kit and shell out $55 for "installation." Again, that installation is loading software on your internet-connected game console.

So it's not as impressive as it sounded in 2007, sure. But who knew we'd have streaming Netflix and Hulu in the future?

JoystiqAT&T finally dates U-verse on Xbox 360, coming Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ATTIPTVmicrosoftU-versexboxMon, 11 Oct 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: AT&T streaming TV finally comes to Xbox in November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/report-atandt-streaming-tv-finally-comes-to-xbox-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/report-atandt-streaming-tv-finally-comes-to-xbox-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/report-atandt-streaming-tv-finally-comes-to-xbox-in-november/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Remember three years ago, when IPTV for Xbox 360 was first announced? According to leaked memos obtained by Engadget, Americans with AT&T U-verse service will soon be able to enjoy it: The memo reveals that the wait for the Mediaroom service will finally, finally be over on November 7.

That's when, the documents say, an Xbox 360 Dashboard app will become available to allow the console to be used as a U-verse set-top box (provided you already have another AT&T-leased receiver or DVR-equipped box in the house). In addition, Engadget received slides like the one pictured above, specifying that only consoles with hard drives will work for the service.

JoystiqReport: AT&T streaming TV finally comes to Xbox in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attdvriptvmediaroommicrosoftset-top-boxstreaming-tvu-versexboxFri, 08 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Details, limitations of Xbox 360 Mediaroom 2.0 IPTV support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/details-limitations-of-xbox-360-mediaroom-2-0-iptv-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/details-limitations-of-xbox-360-mediaroom-2-0-iptv-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/details-limitations-of-xbox-360-mediaroom-2-0-iptv-support/#comments Three years after being unveiled at CES, Microsoft's Mediaroom software is finally coming to Xbox 360 (in the form of Mediaroom 2.0) "later this year" thanks to AT&T's U-verse service. But, that's all the details we had. Until today, when we spoke with Xbox's Aaron Greenberg as well as a Mediacenter spokesperson on the show floor who, between the two of them, managed to answer most of our questions.

First, we asked Greenberg to explain the three-year delay between the technology's 2007 debut and this announcement. "Well, the technology that we showed [in 2007] was brand new and showing that it worked," Greenberg said. "What we then did was we went out to the IPTV content providers and said, 'Hey, now this is an option for you.'" And that option was, of course, to use the Xbox 360 to deliver IPTV content. Greenberg said, "So the technology works ... the Xbox 360 can serve as a set-top box, be a DVR, and run Mediaroom." But not so fast! We got a tour of the service and found a few disappointing shortcomings to that nominally appealing feature-set.

Continue reading Details, limitations of Xbox 360 Mediaroom 2.0 IPTV support

JoystiqDetails, limitations of Xbox 360 Mediaroom 2.0 IPTV support originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aaron-GreenbergATTCESCES-2010IPTVMediaroom-2MicrosoftU-verseXbox-360Fri, 08 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 getting Mediaroom IPTV 'later this year' via AT&T U-verse ... just three years late]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/xbox-360-getting-mediaroom-iptv-later-this-year-through-atandt-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/xbox-360-getting-mediaroom-iptv-later-this-year-through-atandt-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/xbox-360-getting-mediaroom-iptv-later-this-year-through-atandt-u/#comments Just three short years after the CES 2007 announcement that Microsoft's Mediaroom software would turn your Xbox 360 into an IPTV set-top box, Microsoft is finally ready to deliver on that promise (and no, the 2008 BT rollout doesn't count). "I'm happy to announce that later this year AT&T will also enable subscribers to U-verse to enjoy [the new Mediaroom 2.0] service on their Xbox 360 consoles," Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer told his keynote audience. This was in addition to U-verse support for Windows 7 and Windows Mobile, though the details on all three platforms end there.

We'll be digging for more details at CES this week, but this is certainly promising news for the country's 2 million U-verse subscribers (and the "more than 20 million living units" that the service is purportedly available in).

JoystiqXbox 360 getting Mediaroom IPTV 'later this year' via AT&T U-verse ... just three years late originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ATTCESCES-2010IPTVMediaroomMediaroom-2MicrosoftU-verseXbox-360Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Vodafone Portugal releases IPTV service for Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/vodafone-portugal-releases-iptv-service-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/vodafone-portugal-releases-iptv-service-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/vodafone-portugal-releases-iptv-service-for-xbox-360/#commentsPortuguese digital television service, Vodafone Casa TV, is now available to Gold members of Xbox Live. In fact, the company is even promoting a special IPTV Xbox 360 bundle there, which includes an Elite console, 12 months of subscription for Xbox Live Gold and four games -- Lego Batman, Pure, Fable 2 and Halo 3 -- all for €259 (about $375).

The Vodafone Casa TV service not only lets you watch on-demand TV through your Xbox 360, but also grants Portuguese patrons the ability to access content from their set-top boxes and set times for their set-top box to record live television. While users won't be able to directly record content to their Xbox 360, they can still access certain functions of the console while streaming content, including private chat and accepting game invites.

Existing Vodafone Casa TV subscribers with an Xbox 360 can snag the software for a mere €9.90.

[Thanks, Assassin Monk]

JoystiqVodafone Portugal releases IPTV service for Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elitefable-2halo-3iptvlego-batmanportugalpurevodafonevodafone-casa-tvxbox-360-eliteThu, 17 Dec 2009 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Qtv launching IPTV service on ... PlayStation 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/qtv-launching-iptv-service-on-playstation-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/qtv-launching-iptv-service-on-playstation-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/qtv-launching-iptv-service-on-playstation-2/#comments
Qtv unveiled plans to push its "all-in-one" streaming media player to home consoles at the National Association of Broadcasters trade show (NAB 2009), held yesterday in Las Vegas. While other streaming services exist in the current console market, Qtv will begin testing the service in the U.S. using the PlayStation 2 as its base platform, with plans to move to newer consoles at a later time.

Included in the Qtv package is access to YouTube and other streaming video services, as well as Internet radio. The Qtv media player will also allow users to grab and share content -- such as pictures, music and videos of various formats (DivX, h.264, XviD and more) -- from other compatible devices. With the service set to launch later this year, Qtv plans to turn PS2 users into HDTV set-top owners for "less than $50." An interesting proposition ... if we could remember which of our younger relatives we gave our system to.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqQtv launching IPTV service on ... PlayStation 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdtviptvnab2009qtvset-top-boxstreamingyoutubeTue, 21 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[IPTV on the 360 still in test, not totally dead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/iptv-on-the-360-still-in-test-not-totally-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/iptv-on-the-360-still-in-test-not-totally-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/iptv-on-the-360-still-in-test-not-totally-dead/#commentsFiled under:


Xbox 360 IPTV, a feature that was announced back in 2007 and has been on the back burner since, is still in the works and may still see a worldwide launch.

Zatz Not Funny! is reporting that IPTV is going through "multiple carrier field trials" and that U.S. 360 owners may be able to get IPTV access through AT&Ts U-verse. Though, that's only speculation. As far as Europe goes, BT is still the go-to IPTV carrier, but official launch details are still up in the air. All said, we wonder if anyone is still interested in IPTV functionality on the 360. Anyone?

[Via Gizmodo]

JoystiqIPTV on the 360 still in test, not totally dead originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>btiptvxbox-360Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 as set-top box: 'not able to receive or record live TV']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/xbox-360-as-set-top-box-not-able-to-receive-or-record-live-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/xbox-360-as-set-top-box-not-able-to-receive-or-record-live-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/xbox-360-as-set-top-box-not-able-to-receive-or-record-live-tv/#commentsFiled under:

Puzzling details about Microsoft's partnership with UK telecom company BT Group have begun to trickle down. According to BBC, when used as a set-top box to deliver BT's television service, Xbox 360 "will not be able to receive or record live TV." Say what?

The report describes the subscription-based service (with 12-month contract) as a library of on-demand content - yeah, like this one - that includes "near-live" Premier League soccer matches. "The reason for streaming-only on the Xbox is because currently the console does not have the capability for live TV or enough hard drive [space] for practical downloading of content," a BT spokesman told BBC, seemingly hinting that a firmware update could be in the works to enable live streaming. [Update: BT's current service only offers over-the-air live broadcasts (and not via IPTV); without a tuner, Xbox 360 is not capable of receiving the company's live programming.]

Whatever the case, something ain't right here, so we've put a call into Microsoft for answers. Stay tuned.

We've finally heard back from MS; their statement is attached after the break:

Continue reading Xbox 360 as set-top box: 'not able to receive or record live TV'

JoystiqXbox 360 as set-top box: 'not able to receive or record live TV' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>btbt-visiondvriptvstbXbox-360Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BT's 360 TV service on-demand only, over the air live TV not possible [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/british-telecom-360-tv-service-on-demand-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/british-telecom-360-tv-service-on-demand-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/british-telecom-360-tv-service-on-demand-only/#commentsFiled under:

Upon reading a BBC article published today, it seems that British Telecom's planned IPTV service is much less attractive than we had hoped. It turns out that the service does not support live TV or digital video recorder (DVR) functionality, but will be entirely on-demand. In other words, 360 owners will have access to BT's programming library, but won't be flipping channels or recording their favorite shows to watch later. Looking through the CES press release again, the only advantage we can see over the standard set-top box service (which offers live TV and DVR) is that gamers can stay connected to Xbox Live while watching on-demand programming through their 360s, allowing them to send messages and receive game invites among other things. We're not sure that alone justifies a 12-month contract. Of course, if you're interested in nabbing a BT set-top box and you just happen to have a 360 as well, it makes some sense.

Perhaps the most interesting quote in the BBC article is from a BT spokesman: "The reason for streaming only on the Xbox is because currently the console does not have the capability for live TV ...." Now, we know the 360 is capable of live TV, as it was demonstrated at last year's CES. Furthermore, all IPTV is streaming, which makes the quote a bit odd. As far as we know, the only thing keeping the 360 from streaming IPTV is a firmware update. For now, we'll give BT the benefit of the doubt and assume that's what the spokesperson was referring to. We've got a call in to Microsoft for clarification.

Update: After a helpful comment and some digging, we've figured out the basis for British Telecom's claim that the 360 couldn't support live TV. It turns out that BT's live TV offerings are all made over the air. In other words, live TV is received via an antenna, something the 360 currently can't do. The on-demand services, on the other hand, are offered through IPTV. Still, as the first official IPTV offering on the 360, it seems a bit lacking. (Thanks for the insight, mike.)

[Thanks, Scotty Turbo]

JoystiqBT's 360 TV service on-demand only, over the air live TV not possible [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british-telecombtiptvWed, 09 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[British Telecom to launch 360's IPTV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/british-telecom-to-launch-360s-iptv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/british-telecom-to-launch-360s-iptv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/british-telecom-to-launch-360s-iptv/#commentsFiled under:

During their CES keynote, Microsoft took stage and also announced that British Telecom will be the first company to launch the Xbox 360 IPTV service in the UK. British Telecom is the largest telecommunication company in the UK and will eventually allow customers to purchase Xbox 360 consoles for IPTV service. No release date was announced for the program to be up and running, but if history is any indicator of future events then we should see 360 IPTV up and running by around ... 2010. We kid, we kid!

JoystiqBritish Telecom to launch 360's IPTV originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jan 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british-telecomcesiptvMon, 07 Jan 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[UK telecom company BT Group first to use Xbox 360 as set-top box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/06/uk-telecom-company-bt-group-to-use-xbox-360-as-set-top-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/06/uk-telecom-company-bt-group-to-use-xbox-360-as-set-top-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/06/uk-telecom-company-bt-group-to-use-xbox-360-as-set-top-box/#commentsFiled under: ,

Having previously announced its intentions to have the Xbox 360 as a set-top box (STB) at last year's Consumer Electronics Show, Bill Gates told the audience at this year's keynote that British telecommunications company BT Group will be the first company to use the console as a set-top box, whose interface was most recently seen by accident in a repaired console.

Said Gates, "The final announcement, last year we talked about the 360 being an STB -- this year we're excited to announce that BT will be the first to provide that capability. Buy a 360 and use it as an STB for your TV." No other details are given (what about DVR?), but we're hoping to hear some more soon. Check out our hands-on with the service from last year's show.

JoystiqUK telecom company BT Group first to use Xbox 360 as set-top box originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Jan 2008 22:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-gatesbreakingnewsbritish-telecommunicationsbtbt-groupcesces-08ces-2008consumer-electronics-showdvrgatesiptvmicrosoftXbox-360Sun, 06 Jan 2008 22:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Korean IPTV demonstrated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/korean-iptv-demonstrated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/korean-iptv-demonstrated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/korean-iptv-demonstrated/#commentsFiled under:

Non-American PS3s are incredible. In Europe, you'll be able to get DVR on your system, so you can record TV shows. In Korea, you'll be able to watch TV through the new IPTV service available exclusively for that territory. Watch this video, taken from a Korean electronics show. With this, Korean PS3 fans will be able to really take advantage of the PS3's media abilities. Too bad an equivalent service won't happen in the States.

JoystiqKorean IPTV demonstrated originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iptvkoreaWed, 14 Nov 2007 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Asks: What features should MS spring for the Fall Update?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/joystiq-asks-what-features-should-ms-spring-for-the-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/joystiq-asks-what-features-should-ms-spring-for-the-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/joystiq-asks-what-features-should-ms-spring-for-the-fall-update/#commentsFiled under:


So, we know those IPTV screens are "unrelated" to the Xbox 360's Fall Update, but that's about all we know about the last of this year's major 360 updates. Last year's Fall Update (was that really the first?) included 1080p support, HD DVD functionality, XNA functionality, WMV compatibility, and more. Some pretty big-ticket items in there, to be sure. And there's been two Spring Updates ('06 and '07), both of which came with some huge improvements including background downloading and chat and IM functionality.

Just two days before the one-year anniversary of the Fall Update, we'd like to ask you Joystiqers, what should we expect to see in this year's Fall Update? We've heard rumors of DivX video support, an XBLA blade, and integrated clan functionality. Surely there's more up the sleeve of Redmond's oversized fall-themed sweater. Us? We'd love to be able to change the listed gamertag of 'xXsmokezmadbluntz420Xx' to the more frequently used title: 'Mom'. And what do you, dear readers, want to see in your Fall Update? Vote up the comments you like best and we'll compile the best answers later in the week.

JoystiqJoystiq Asks: What features should MS spring for the Fall Update? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 20:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fall-UpdateIPTVXbox-360Mon, 29 Oct 2007 20:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft says IPTV not part of Fall Update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/microsoft-says-iptv-not-part-of-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/microsoft-says-iptv-not-part-of-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/microsoft-says-iptv-not-part-of-fall-update/#commentsFiled under:


Microsoft has now officially responded to the story we broke yesterday regarding photos we received displaying an Xbox 360 with IPTV features enabled (though unusable). Joystiq has learned that these features were "inadvertently exposed" to the Xbox 360 in question during repair. Microsoft adds that IPTV is not part of the upcoming Xbox 360 Fall Update, but will be made available to service providers by the end of the year. It will then be up to service providers to decide when and how to roll out the Mediaroom enabled boxes. So there you have it folks. It is IPTV, but not part of the fall update.

See Microsoft's statement after the break.

Continue reading Microsoft says IPTV not part of Fall Update

JoystiqMicrosoft says IPTV not part of Fall Update originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iptvMon, 29 Oct 2007 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: IPTV not a part of Xbox Live Fall Update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/microsoft-iptv-not-a-part-of-xbox-live-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/microsoft-iptv-not-a-part-of-xbox-live-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/microsoft-iptv-not-a-part-of-xbox-live-fall-update/#commentsFiled under:

Turns out those images of an Xbox 360 with IPTV were legit. In a statement issued by Microsoft, the Redmond-based company acknowledged that the IPTV features "were inadvertently exposed while the customer's console was being serviced and is unrelated to the Fall Update."

The IPTV features, according to the statement, are part of the Microsoft Mediaroom services and will be made available to service providers by the end of this year, adding that it will be up to them to decide when the service is deployed. We've posted Microsoft's complete statement after the break.

Continue reading Microsoft: IPTV not a part of Xbox Live Fall Update

JoystiqMicrosoft: IPTV not a part of Xbox Live Fall Update originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dashboard-UpdateFall-UpdateiptvmicrosoftVideoXbox-360Xbox-IPTVMon, 29 Oct 2007 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 360's IPTV features spotted in dashboard]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/27/rumor-360s-iptv-features-spotted-in-dashboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/27/rumor-360s-iptv-features-spotted-in-dashboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/27/rumor-360s-iptv-features-spotted-in-dashboard/#commentsFiled under:


Several images of IPTV options being displayed in the Xbox 360's dashboard have made their way into the blogosphere, courtesy of our pals* at X3F. According to tipster Aaron, the console recently returned from the oft-visited Microsoft repair center, only to display several new and seemingly incomplete menu additions. Appearing under the Media and System blades, mentions of DVR storage, live television services and pause buffers all seem to imply that the Xbox 360's IPTV services are close enough for us to start using words like "impending."

If these images are indeed proof of premature tweaks to the console (which still shows an older dashboard version number), one can speculate that IPTV may be introduced with this Fall's dashboard update. We've already asked Microsoft to comment, but if they treat this anything like the Arcade SKU, we can expect them to deny it until well after everybody's started watching TV on their consoles.

*This status may change should those bastards fail to return our copy of American Ninja 4.

Gallery: Rumor: Xbox 360 IPTV Dashboard Options

JoystiqRumor: 360's IPTV features spotted in dashboard originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Oct 2007 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dashboard-UpdateFall-UpdateIPTVVideoXbox-360Xbox-IPTVSat, 27 Oct 2007 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Leaked screens show IPTV and Fall update [update 2]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/rumor-leaked-screens-show-iptv-and-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/rumor-leaked-screens-show-iptv-and-fall-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/rumor-leaked-screens-show-iptv-and-fall-update/#commentsFiled under:

Update 2: Microsoft has responded to our screenshots saying that this isolated IPTV incident is not part of the Fall update and was accidentally exposed during repair. Learn more here.

Update: We just learned that Aaron just got his 360 back from Microsoft repair this week. We also know that his dash version isn't any different than the one that is already out (2.0.5787.0) leading us to believe that his 360 doesn't have the Fall update. But the new options are definitely related to the IPTV service as more options were discovered in his 360's settings. Need proof? Check out the two new screenshots we just added.

If the sweet, juicy, rumor friendly screenshots that we just received via our tipster inbox hold any water, then everyone can look forward to IPTV being part of the Fall update. Though, remember kids, this is all filed under the "rumor" tag ...

The two four screenshots you see in the gallery below were sent to us by tipster Aaron, who says that he turned on his Xbox 360 today and noticed a new TV icon with four text squares in his media blade and was wondering if we knew what it was all about. We investigated and noticed that this new TV icon option wasn't normal and replaced the "Video Marketplace" option that we see on our dash. The second thing we noticed was that, when hovered over, the description for the mysterious TV icon option reads:
    Use television services.
  • Live & recorded TV
  • On-demand movies
  • Chat while watching TV

Sounds like IPTV options to us. Once clicked, an error message pops up stating that it was "unable to start" and to contact support at www.microsoft.com/tv. That URL will take you to Microsoft's Mediaroom website ... also interesting. So, if everything is legit in these pictures and Aaron doesn't end up being a Photoshop God, we're going speculate that this random occurrence is related somehow to the Fall update. The square text boxes, error message and overall un-ready status of the dashboard option all smell of a Fall update that isn't yet ready for the masses. Maybe Aaron was online at the right moment when an Xbox Live engineer tripped over a cord sending Fall update goodness to his 360. Who knows. We'll try to get more information about this odd occurrence and ultimately find out if these screens are real and relate to IPTV or the Fall update. Until then, file everything into the rumor section of your brain and give the screenshots a look over.



[Thanks, Aaron]

JoystiqRumor: Leaked screens show IPTV and Fall update [update 2] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatefall-updateiptvxbox-360Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Korean PS3 gets IPTV service in November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/korean-ps3-gets-iptv-service-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/korean-ps3-gets-iptv-service-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/korean-ps3-gets-iptv-service-in-november/#commentsFiled under:

Korea's primary telecommunications operator, known as KT, has teamed up with Sony to expand the multimedia functionality of the PS3. PS3 will gain the ability to broadcast IPTV, "an internet-based TV service," in November. IPTV is not available in many countries, meaning this service is unlikely to come to America. For now, the price of the service is unknown. However, this will undoubtedly be an attractive feature for Korean consumers.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqKorean PS3 gets IPTV service in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iptvkoreamega-tvFri, 12 Oct 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[British Telecom to exclusively offer 360 IPTV?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/11/british-telecom-to-exclusively-offer-360-iptv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/11/british-telecom-to-exclusively-offer-360-iptv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/11/british-telecom-to-exclusively-offer-360-iptv/#commentsFiled under: ,

Remember Microsoft's grand announcement that IPTV would be available to Xbox 360 owners sometime in 2007 and all the excitement that followed? Yeah, us either, but our European friends may be getting one step closer to the promised IPTV function with the latest rumor hitting the web. Word on the street is that British Telecom may have cut a deal with Microsoft to exclusively offer IPTV to its subscribers through the Xbox 360 sometime this year. And it isn't all that far fetched seeing that BT is the largest and only telecom provider in the area and has already partnered with Microsoft using their Microsoft Mediaroom software. We'll just have to be patient and wait to see if the IPTV talk starts up again, because the topic has been hidden in the shadows for quite the long time. Wereez R IPTV doodz?

[Via Xboxic, Thanks DjDATZ]

JoystiqBritish Telecom to exclusively offer 360 IPTV? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Aug 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britishtelecomiptvxbox360Sat, 11 Aug 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 to have DVR capabilities in 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/ps3-to-have-dvr-capabilities-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/ps3-to-have-dvr-capabilities-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/ps3-to-have-dvr-capabilities-in-2008/#commentsFiled under:

We like the PS3, but we've often thought that it would be vastly improved if we could use it to figure out what sort of girl Bret Michaels goes for or if we were, in fact, smarter than a 5th grader. It appears that Sony has heard our prayers, with one marketing exec claiming that the system will receive a digital tuner that will allow the box to serve as a digital video recorder (a PS3-Vo, if you will) next year.

Warwick Light, who runs marketing for Sony Computer Entertainment in New Zealand, set the beans to spilling in The Press, saying "We're also hoping next year - about the same time that Freeview launches its terrestrial broadcasting service (expected to be in March) - to release a digital tuner for the PS3, turning it into a programmable TV recorder." When can you expect to hear more? Well, we're just guessing, but we've already heard we can expect some fireworks from Sony at Leipzig. Also, Microsoft's been talking about offering this sort of service this fall, so the timing would make sense.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqPS3 to have DVR capabilities in 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dvriptvps3Wed, 01 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft invests in Chinese developer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/microsoft-invests-in-chinese-developer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/microsoft-invests-in-chinese-developer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/microsoft-invests-in-chinese-developer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft has purchased 15 million shares in Sichuan, China-based Changhong Electric Co., valued at 94 million yuan (about US $12 million). That's just one percent off the company, according to the Taipei Times.

Said Microsoft spokesman in Beijing Roger Chen, the two companies will explore "a wide range of scenarios for digital entertainment needs ... The project focuses on in-home network digital entertainment -- how to connect PCs, TVs and the Internet to provide this digital entertainment experience."

The first thought that comes to our mind is the Xbox 360, Microsoft's most prominent living room entertainment device, and potentially is related to their IPTV service. No concrete details have been given about the project, so consider this all speculation at the moment.

JoystiqMicrosoft invests in Chinese developer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chang hongChangHongchinaiptvmicrosoftPCtelevisionvistawindowsXbox-360xpTue, 19 Jun 2007 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[IPTV to be shown in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/iptv-to-be-shown-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/iptv-to-be-shown-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/iptv-to-be-shown-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


During the The Connected Home exhibition in London, Microsoft will be showing off their IPTV service for the Xbox 360. We've given you plenty of information to digest on the subject and after Ed Graczyk gives his keynote during the event in March, we'll probably have plenty more to talk about. The proposition of watching your favorite TV shows and still being connected to Live, with the ability to be in private chats or sending messages sounds very interesting. Depending how bandwidth heavy the service is, you might even be able to download content off of Marketplace at the same time. With a slated 2007 release on the service, we can't wait to hear more about it, and the event takes place between the 5th and 7th, so fortunately it won't have to be for long. Are you chomping at the bit for this, or is your 360 strictly a gaming device?

[Thanks, SeNiLe]

JoystiqIPTV to be shown in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Feb 2007 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>I P T VIPTVMicrosoft TV IPTV EditionMicrosoftTvIptvEditionXbox 360Xbox360Fri, 23 Feb 2007 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 IPTV to be shown at The Connected Home show in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/xbox-360-iptv-to-be-shown-at-the-connected-home-show-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/xbox-360-iptv-to-be-shown-at-the-connected-home-show-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/xbox-360-iptv-to-be-shown-at-the-connected-home-show-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: ,


During his keynote at Europe's The Connected Home Show, Microsoft TV's Ed Graczyk will showcase the Xbox 360's impending IPTV capabilities, first revealed at the Consumer Electronics Show this year.

Though the press release would have you believe that Graczyk, whose official long-winded job title is Worldwide Director of Marketing and Communications, will "showcase what happens when next-generation television is combined with next-generation gaming in a unique, new service delivered by your broadband provider," we aren't expecting much more than IPTV and possibly some DVR functions. Wonderland has provided an analysis of the fluff-tacular press release.

We can only hope Graczyk does reveal DVR capabilities and simulates them by pausing mid-speech and pantomiming the rewind feature. Evird drah regral a gnilaever tuoba woh?

The Connected Home Show, part of the IPTV World Forum, will be held March 5-7 in Olympia, London.

See Also:
Hands-on: IPTV on Xbox 360

JoystiqXbox 360 IPTV to be shown at The Connected Home show in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Feb 2007 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected homeConnectedHomeip tvIpTviptv forumIptvForumXbox-360Thu, 22 Feb 2007 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 and IPTV interview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/26/xbox-360-and-iptv-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/26/xbox-360-and-iptv-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/26/xbox-360-and-iptv-interview/#commentsFiled under:


Our compatriots at PVRWire uncovered a 1UP video interview with Microsoft's Chris Satchell and Albert Penello. The group discuss the Xbox 360's feature set and what sort of improvements we might expect in the future. Some of the more interesting topics discussed include Xbox Live, features that the 360 should have, and, of course, a larger hard drive. The interview is broken up into two parts. The first part mainly covers IPTV and the possibility of a larger hard drive for DVR functions. The second half focuses on the 360 itself and its future potential. Part one is embedded above and you can watch part two after the break.

Continue reading Xbox 360 and IPTV interview

JoystiqXbox 360 and IPTV interview originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jan 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upgamevideosiptvmiixbox 360 iptvXbox360IptvFri, 26 Jan 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft profits down, Xbox 360 revenues up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/microsoft-profits-down-xbox-360-revenues-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/microsoft-profits-down-xbox-360-revenues-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/microsoft-profits-down-xbox-360-revenues-up/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Xbox 360 was a notable bright spot in Microsoft's latest second quarter fiscal earnings report, otherwise marred by a tardy consumer Windows Vista release. In a brief phone interview with Peter Moore, vice president of Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft, we went over the announcement and what it meant for the 360.

Moore was eager to remind us that Microsoft had met their goal of shipping 10 million Xbox 360 units, breaking the numbers down as follows: 6 million in North America; 3.1 million in Europe; and 1.3 million in the remainder of the markets it's available in (including Japan). There were no specific numbers for Japan, but he was happy to point out Gears of War's cozy spot on the Japanese sales charts.

But it's not all good numbers. They've also altered their forecast for the fiscal year ending June 30th, from a goal of 13 to 15 million Xbox 360 consoles shipped to just 12 million, leaving them a relatively attainable goal of shipping an additional 1.6 million units over the next five months. Their real goal: profitability by this time 2008. With revenues of $2.96 billion, a 76% jump from last year, and a loss of $289 million, roughly the same as last year, profitability isn't too far off.

To achieve that goal, Moore pointed to titles like Viva Pinata which, while seriously underperforming at retail, remains a critical success and "will sell for years," says Moore. Exclusive first-party content, like Gears of War and Halo 3, coupled with third-party exclusives like BioShock and Splinter Cell Convictions will continue to push hardware sales, while ancillary services like Xbox Live and microtransactions will continue to add to revenues. While Microsoft is on the road to profitability, they have a ways to go to catch up with Nintendo whose latest financial report cited a 43% profit increase. It's a very long road, you see?

Read -- Microsoft Reports Record Revenue
Read -- Microsoft profit down, beats estimates (AP)

JoystiqMicrosoft profits down, Xbox 360 revenues up originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jan 2007 23:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>IPTVMicrosoftPeterMooreXbox-360Thu, 25 Jan 2007 23:29:00 EST<![CDATA[DVR Xbox 360 possible, IPTV the catalyst]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/15/dvr-xbox-360-possible-iptv-the-catalyst/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/15/dvr-xbox-360-possible-iptv-the-catalyst/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/15/dvr-xbox-360-possible-iptv-the-catalyst/#commentsFiled under: ,

it doesn't look different...Speaking with Major Nelson, Microsoft group product manager Aaron Greenberg speculated that a version of Xbox 360 specialized for IPTV and DVR activity was certainly possible. Greenberg admitted that "[Microsoft] did not build [Xbox 360] to be a high-definition DVR," suggesting an IPTV upgrade (i.e. larger hard drive) and IPTV-specific console "configuration" were both possible solutions to the inherent dilemma. Greenberg did note that a larger hard drive would only be necessary for DVR functionality -- IPTV could function with or without a hard drive.

While this is hardly confirmation that a new version of Xbox 360 is inbound, Greenberg's statements may indicate that Microsoft is closing in on a strategy for 360 v2; one that won't upset early adopters (at least, not as much). Marketing v2 as an IPTV/DVR device (PSX, anyone?) might be enough of a diversion to excuse the original Xbox 360's lack of substantial hard drive space and HDMI output. If that is to be the case, it will be imperative that all of the v2 components are available for the original console, including a free IPTV software installation (with purchase of contract, of course).

JoystiqDVR Xbox 360 possible, IPTV the catalyst originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Jan 2007 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360DVRHard DriveHardDriveHDHDDHDMIHigh DefinitionHighDefinitionIPTVXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Mon, 15 Jan 2007 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Specialized 360 for IPTV in the works?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/15/specialized-360-for-iptv-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/15/specialized-360-for-iptv-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/15/specialized-360-for-iptv-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under:

Speaking with Major Nelson in his most recent podcast, Microsoft's Aaron Greenberg spoke of the possibility of a specially configured 360 built with IPTV and DVR functions in mind. When questioned about DVR functions and the possibility of a larger HDD, Greengerg said, "clearly the current way the Xbox 360 is designed is not for that ... we did not build this box to be a High Definition DVR." Greenberg further states that it's possible that consumers will eventually purchase some kind of IPTV upgrade (possibly referring only to a larger hard drive) or purchase an IPTV specific 360 "configuration" from a service provider. Greenberg points out that a larger hard drive is really only necessary for DVR functions and that it's possible to run IPTV without a hard drive at all.

While this doesn't necessarily mean we'll be seeing an entirely new 360, it may be the first time an MS representative hasn't outright deflected the possibility of a larger HDD, and that's saying something.

JoystiqSpecialized 360 for IPTV in the works? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Jan 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360 v2360V2hddiptvlarger hddLargerHddxbox 360 iptvXbox360IptvMon, 15 Jan 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 IPTV outshines Apple TV?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/xbox-360-iptv-outshines-apple-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/xbox-360-iptv-outshines-apple-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/xbox-360-iptv-outshines-apple-tv/#commentsFiled under: ,


While the Apple iPhone may have unexpectedly blown Microsoft's Zune out of the water at CES, the 360 looks as though it may have pulled an unexpected fast one of its own. What we're talking about here is Xbox 360 IPTV versus Apple TV. As noted by Beta News, it may have been the frothing Apple blogosphere itself that muted the announcement of Apple TV: "I got the feeling that as [Steve Jobs] was going through the iTV announcement, the blogger was going, okay, 720p ... yadda, yadda, yadda ... come on, let's get to the phone!" Meanwhile, Microsoft dropped something of a bomb by announcing that IPTV was coming to the Xbox 360. The reason that this is very different from Apple TV is that Microsoft has already established an Xbox ecosystem. They already have millions of customers with 360s in their homes. According to the article, Microsoft has a key advantage in the TV space because of its leverage with the gaming audience (you know, 18-30 year old guys who dig technology).

We have to admit, had we known that our Xbox 360 was merely a sneaky way of Microsoft solidifying its dream of creating the mythical "set top box," we would have been skeptical to say the least. But now that it's here, now that downloading movies and TV is possible (and having great games to boot), we're enjoying every minute of it. Microsoft has succeeded in an arena completely separate from games, and is giving similar services a run for their money (we wouldn't be surprised if the Video Mareketplace moves from its number 2 position to claim 1st place either).

So, maybe the iPhone did shoot the Zune in the face, but Microsoft seemingly struck a similar blow with the IPTV announcement. Then again, maybe the Apple TV and 360 IPTV shouldn't even be looked at as competitors, as Apple clearly isn't aiming for the HDMI loving, 1080p needing crowd. What do you think, will the 360 become the first mass market set top box that the tech industry has been dreaming of since the 90s? (Bonus question: has it already?)

[Thanks, Jonah Falcon]

JoystiqXbox 360 IPTV outshines Apple TV? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jan 2007 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360 iptv360Iptvappleapple tvAppleTviptvxbox 360 iptvXbox360IptvFri, 12 Jan 2007 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands on with 360 IPTV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/hands-on-with-360-iptv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/hands-on-with-360-iptv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/hands-on-with-360-iptv/#commentsFiled under:


Joystiq had a chance to mess around with IPTV on the Xbox 360 and have some nagging questions answered. First of all, the service itself will be served by one of a number of telcos like Verizon or AT&T (it won't necessarily be AT&T as previously speculated). A number of telcos use Microsoft IPTV middleware, so it stands to reason that these companies will offer their services on the Xbox 360. As Joystiq points out, a 20GB HDD just ain't gonna cut it for a DVR, and recorded TV will likely take up at least the same amount of space as videos downloaded from Marketplace. Joystiq speculates that a larger HDD will be available for the 360 in time for the launch of the IPTV service at the end of the year. Finally, IPTV allows for multiple streams to be viewed and recorded at once -- limited only by bandwidth and the HDD -- and is capable of delivering more HD content than standard services. Of course, none of this will matter if IPTV isn't available in your area. That is unless Microsoft has yet another trick up their collective sleeve. Check out a gallery of IPTV images here.

If it performed competitively and was reasonably priced, would you ditch your cable provider for Live enabled IPTV on Xbox 360?

JoystiqHands on with 360 IPTV originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Jan 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360 iptv360Iptviptviptv 360Iptv360xbox liveXboxLiveThu, 11 Jan 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with IPTV on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/hands-on-with-iptv-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/hands-on-with-iptv-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/hands-on-with-iptv-on-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under:


We had a chance to check out Microsoft's IPTV offering for Xbox 360, announced earlier this week during Bill Gates' CES keynote, and get answers to some of the questions that have been nagging at us since first hearing about the service. Though Microsoft hasn't announced any providers for the service yet, both AT&T and Verizon -- as well as fourteen other telcos around the world -- use Microsoft's IPTV middleware platform to provide television over fiber, so they seem like likely candidates when the service debuts holiday season '07.Of course, if you're considering the DVR functionality, the Xbox 360's anemic 20GB hard drive won't get you very far. A Microsoft rep said the file sizes are dependent not only on the resolution of the feed, but the compression used by the provider; however, one could probably assume that the Xbox Live Video Marketplace's videos would be roughly analogous in size. Regardless, we'd expect an update to the drive before IPTV launches. Because IPTV uses software, not a hardware tuner, to decode the signal, the number of streams that can be simultaneously recorded is limited solely by internet and hard drive bandwidth. In addition, IPTV is capable of offering more HD channels than other platforms, like cable or satellite. Because the service shares the same connection as your phone and internet connection, it can provide telco caller-ID and features like teleconferencing have "been discussed." Perhaps the biggest question we have is whether or not any of this functionality would (or could) be made available to gamers who don't (or can't) get IPTV service in their area. Microsoft isn't saying anything but, considering the small amount of consumers with fiber service to the home, we certainly hope so.


Hands-on with IPTV on Xbox 360

JoystiqHands-on with IPTV on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Jan 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>convergenceIPTVMicrosoftmultimediatelevisionXbox-360Thu, 11 Jan 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dull Dashboard update today, Gears patch too [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/dull-dashboard-update-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/dull-dashboard-update-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/dull-dashboard-update-today/#commentsFiled under: ,

Xbox 360Today's mysterious Xbox 360 update was simply a series of bug fixes that stabilized some performance issues. No IPTV this round.

In other update news, pop in your copy of Gears of War and download the new patch -- maps tomorrow.

Update: removed incorrect update details.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqDull Dashboard update today, Gears patch too [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jan 2007 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360DashboardGears of WarGearsOfWarIPTVPatchUpdateXbox 360Xbox LiveXbox-360Xbox360XboxLiveTue, 09 Jan 2007 15:24:00 EST