Xbox set top box for home theaters due in 2013

According to various sources a Xbox set top box for home theaters due in 2013. Microsoft apparently has plans to introduce a low-cost alternative to its Xbox console, designed to provide access to core entertainment services.

The set top box will be provided in addition to a full next generation Xbox console, in an attempt to further consolidate its presence in peoples living rooms as an entertainment device of choice. (Image credit: Flickr)

According to Tom Warren from the Verge reporting on the Xbox set top box for home theaters due in 2013 -

The device will run on the core components of Windows 8 and support casual gaming titles rather than full Xbox games typically found on a dedicated console. Although hardware specifications aren't fully locked down, we understand Microsoft will use a chipset to enable an "always on" device that boots quickly and resumes to provide near-instant access to TV and entertainment services.

MICROSOFT'S XBOX PLATFORM FOR ALL TYPES OF DEVICES

Microsoft's Xbox set-top box work is said to be part of a broader effort to ensure its core architecture for the next-generation Xbox is scalable enough to be put together to run on a number of devices. We understand that the company could opt to combine its core system for the next Xbox with a phone stack to deliver a phone capable of running a full version of Microsoft's Xbox Live services. It has also investigated providing this functionality to TV OEMs, who could include the core services as part of a licensed Xbox television set.

We reached out to Microsoft for comment on its Xbox set-top box plans and the company issued the following statement:

"Xbox 360 has found new ways to extend the console lifecycle by introducing controller-free experiences with Kinect and re-inventing the console with a new dashboard and new entertainment content partnerships. We are always thinking about what is next for our platform and how to continue to defy the lifecycle convention."

The Xbox set top box for home theaters due in 2013 seems like a logical product extension for those who aren't so much into gaming but wanting to use more of the entertainment offerings. But will the Xbox set top box for home theaters due in 2013 bring us closer to cutting the cord? That remains to be seen with the content availability in the coming year. Let us know if the Xbox set top box for home theaters due in 2013 will make a difference to your home theater.

via Posterize