Right now Microsoft is known for two things. First of all the company is known for it’s software applications. Windows, office, outlook etc. Despite the huge popularity of Mac or Apple the companies software is on far more machines than is IOS, Mac OS, Linux and so on. The company is also known for it’s game system, the Xbox. The Xbox is a hugely popular gaming device and was one of the first to begin to integrate voice and motion controls. But what about people who do not want to shell out $350.00-$400.00 to put an Xbox One in their livingroom? So let’s think about a few things.
1. Microsoft killed Windows Media Center in Windows 10 effectively ending the ida of using a PC as a DVR or accessing any sort of Media apps via a TV connected PC Interface.
2. The set-top streaming market is maturing with Apple and Android already in that space along with Roku and Amazon (which is really Android)
3. There seems to be an interest in mini PC’s running windows from these under-powered PC sticks to boxes like the MiniX Neo Windows edition.
4. The Playstation Vita
Is Microsoft really going to ignore the livingroom market for those who are not high end gamers? Maybe, but if it were to put together an easy to use system at the $100.00 price point, which seems to be the winning number across the industry, it has enough apps and potential to be compelling.
Media Apps
Windows has built a solid group of media apps that are going to be available across all of its devices with a universal app store. There are already solid apps for services like Netflix, Hulu, Crackle and other go to apps along with a number of independent ones. A port of the windows store would give users a number of options.
Game Streaming
Speaking of Netflix gaming is the new black. Sony’s Play Station TV allows users to stream older PS titles and others. A similar option would be a great feature for a Microsoft streaming box. Throw in Steam games and support for console and PC game streaming over a local network and the item becomes a fantastic accessory to a home where gaming is king.
Multiple accessories
Support for multiple accessories would be a must. Imagine a system that would support IR remotes, Xbox One game pads, PC game pads, blue tooth keyboards and more. Like the Nvidia Shield, a system with a game controller to start with might encourage game play and purchases. And use of a Keyborad might be a hit with PC gamers.
So what do you think? Would you consider such a product for your home? Let us know in the comments section bellow.
