Microsoft is building an Apple TV competitor
According to recent rumors, Microsoft could be working on a slimmed-down version of Xbox One, priced accordingly to directly compete with the latest version of Apple TV.
A similar rumor started alongside the release of Xbox One. With that in mind, while Apple has indeed set the pace in regard to how set top boxes will look in the future, Microsoft may have the upper-hand when it comes to gaming.
A smaller version of the Xbox One console, with access to games available on the Windows Store, as well as advanced graphic capabilities, could turn out to be a killer product, at least for consumers who tend to lean towards gaming, rather than just streaming shows.
There is no word yet on the type of hardware on which this new set top box will run, but if the intent is to compete against Apple TV, Microsoft is expected to come down to a few compromises towards striking the perfect balance between price and performance.
Apple TV runs on a full version of iOS, modified for home entertainment, dubbed tvOS, which allows access to all content on the Apple App Store. This include the whole selection of game titles, and streaming apps available to the iPhone and iPad. Browsing content on Apple TV involves using the new Apple TV remote, which features touch controls, as well as Siri integration.
While an advanced and easy to use remote control, coupled with Cortana integration is the bare minimum for Microsoft to compete with Apple’s own offering, a focus on casual gaming could be a point of leverage for the Redmond tech giant.
Microsoft Virtual Gaming Controller
In July of last year, at barely weeks away from the official launch of Windows 10, we discovered a patent, filed by Microsoft, which describes what seems to be a virtual gaming controller that can be operated from a Windows 10 device, to control the gaming experience, and possibly other aspects of home entertainment, on another device, like a TV, or even Xbox One.
This patent could be key to Microsoft’s new set top box success, as the company could be working on a touchscreen remote capable of controlling other devices as well, and have a concise enough footprint to be the ultimate home entertainment/casual gaming remote.