Xbox Live could be cable's new competitor

[GS News]

Originally Posted by qj.net

[Only registered users can see links. ]A report was recently published by the [Only registered users can see links. ] Times detailing how [Only registered users can see links. ]'s Xbox 360 console is good enough to replace cable TV for some people, at the same time drawing in new users outside of the core demographic.

The famed publication has recognized the marvel that is the Xbox Live network and how it's serving up a well-rounded dose of [Only registered users can see links. ] which consumers have caught on to because it can be availed of in increments. Movies and TV series episodes can be rented or purchased, making nostalgia another drawing point to the business model.

The strategy for Microsoft is basically to form an entertainment coalition with heavyweights [Only registered users can see links. ], New Line, Warner Brothers, [Only registered users can see links. ], [Only registered users can see links. ], A&E and ABC, then find the consumers wherever they are and give them what they're looking for. By taking into consideration the demographic included in the more than 6 million subscribers, the coalition determines what content is most appropriate to serve.

More importantly, the [Only registered users can see links. ] report reveals an unexpected but pleasant side effect of the move by Microsoft and its partners: Non-gamers are actually getting into the act by warming up to the entertainment content.

The example of Memphis account executive Josh Roberts is cited in the article. He's 24 and has owned every game system since the Nintendo Entertainment System. When he and his wife moved to the city, they didn't have cable TV for a while and Xbox Live kept them occupied. Today, Mrs. Roberts still doesn't play video games but uses the Xbox 360 to watch HD movies and series episodes. However, they do have their gripes with how the system is currently set up.

Roberts says that the Microsoft Points system, for one, is a little confusing. He says he'd [Only registered users can see links. ]. Still, he's optimistic with what Xbox Live can be given the right approach. "[Xbox LIVE Marketplace]," he added, is not yet at a place where I think it s made my life easier or more entertaining in my leisure time, but I m excited for the potential. When it moves faster and the bandwidth is great, then I think it will be very cool."

[Only registered users can see links. ]

[Momma Bear]

So, I can get rid of my cable telly bill and just keep my modem and watch my shows through my xbox? I mean really you can find just about anything online and I do have an S video hook up through my laptop.

So the core 360 is not looking so good anymore.....