The biggest barrier for Ineternet-based VOD is DRM. I don't know if that can be addressed at a level where the content owners will allow this form to go mainstream in 2007 (or ever?). Plus, the cable and sat guys aren't going to stand by and wait for Microsoft and Sony to steal away their lucrative business model either. I guess it depends on what you mean by mainstream. PVR/DVR tech has been around 10+ years, but it still hasn't seen the kind of mainstream penetration you'd expect.
Dave Zatz
· 3 years ago
I'm specifically referring to movie rentals via Internet/broadband going mainstream. Hopefully the cable and sat companies will feel the pressure and also decide to offer thousands of movies on demand via a usable interface.
Tim Marman
· 3 years ago
I don't think Microsoft ever tried to hide these intentions. They saw the Xbox as a vehicle into the living room.
Initially, I think they thought the MCE would get more traction - but over time with cable offerings, price, and so on it became clear that wasn't the best strategy.
HDTiVo
· 3 years ago
Looks like this also relates back to your comments about Unbox the other day. With a regular XP computer and a 360, you should be able to play Unbox content.
Alexi
· 3 years ago
Despite any misgivings I have about DRM, I'd be sold on MS as a downloadable media provider if they were to offer more full-length high-def video and audio content (and a bigger place to store all of it). I'm a huge iTunes fan now, but might be singing a different Zune if MS had a comparable or better selection.
Cooper
· 3 years ago
Very entertaining issue. I haven't heard of this one. It will be necessary to visit you on a thicket!
All Comments
Initially, I think they thought the MCE would get more traction - but over time with cable offerings, price, and so on it became clear that wasn't the best strategy.