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We’ve been hearing for several weeks that Microsoft was close to finalizing content deals that would allow the Xbox game console stream TV. Today Redmond announced the program, and the partner list is impressive. The deal encompasses cable providers like Comcast and Verizon, but some individual stations like Bravo, BBC, and HBO are also on board. However, this isn’t the kind of service that encourages users to cut the cord; there are conditions.
Most of this content will be available as apps for the Xbox Dashboard, but users will have to authenticate via an existing cable subscription. Additionally, Verizon will only be making part of its channel lineup available. Some content is country specific with BBC exclusive to the UK and Canal+ in France. YouTube integration will be more or less universal, though.
The Dashboard Metro-style redesign that allows this service should be out sometime in November. At that time, we are also expecting Windows Phone integration that turns the mobile device into a remote control. Would this sway you to get an Xbox over other consoles?
Comments are closed on this article
bling581
October 06, 2011 at 9:39am
"Most of this content will be available as apps for the Xbox Dashboard, but users will have to authenticate via an existing cable subscription"
No thanks. I have streaming because I DO NOT WANT cable or satellite.
Laserwulf
October 05, 2011 at 6:40pm
Maybe I'm missing something, but if:
- you need to already have a cable subscription
- it shows only a subset of the channels that you can watch on a TV
- your 360 is hooked up to the same TV that probably has the cable box (family room, den, etc.)
What's the point of using this, over directly through the cable box?
jedisamurai
October 05, 2011 at 4:41pm
Only one selling point I'm interesting in. I want to be able to RECORD television using my Xbox 360. I was watching TV and doing that through the Windows Media Center Connect...and then it stopped working (black screen of death). Now all I want is an easy way to watch and record TV digitally from my couch without paying for TiVo ect...
Holly Golightly
October 05, 2011 at 2:59pm
This would definitely sway me to get an Xbox360 if I were in the market to buy a console. However, what a rip off that you still need cable service just to watch TV on your Xbox. Oh well... My only wish is that they bring this feature on over to Windows 8. I do not like consoles, and I do not think I will buy another console.
