Microsoft Expects Project Natal to Be a Giant Leap for TV

From X-bit Labs: Microsoft Corp. said that its forthcoming Natal motion sensor will not only enable new experience in video games, but to also replace remote controls for TV-sets and enrich media experience of end-users. In fact, Microsoft expects wide convergence of the Internet, television and video games going forward.

“I don't believe we are currently in the golden age of the television or the golden age of the game console or the golden age of the Internet; frankly, five years from now I don't know that you'll be able to tell the difference between those worlds,” said Marc Whitten, the general manager responsible for Microsoft's Xbox Live service, told attendees at the Streaming Media West show, reports PC Magazine.

The high-ranking executive at Microsoft said he envisioned a future where Natal recognizes the users in the room as well as their voices. Knowing the identity of the users, services will also know the content they are interested in and allow one of multiple users to control the interface.

“With the flick of my wrist I can change a channel. With the power of my voice I can start a movie. […] I believe that this will be the largest leap of TV experience since the remote control,” added Mr. Whitten.

In the end, Microsoft wants content services to better understand preferences of end-users, which will eventually enable the latter to quickly find preferred content.

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