Microsoft Details Xbox Live Update, Netflix Exclusivity

From DailyTech: Microsoft frequently rolls out updates for the Xbox LIVE service that adds new features for Xbox owners. The latest update for Xbox Live is coming soon with some features set to roll out this week. Starting on August 13, Xbox owners will be available to browse and purchase Games on Demand on the Xbox Live Marketplace.

The update also adds a new Avatar Marketplace that will offer props for Avatars and the ability to download and purchase premium items like clothing for the player's avatar. The slick Netflix streaming service is also getting an update that adds new features like Party Watch that lets users watch a show with friends at the same time if the movie is supported. Content search is improved in the update and the playback experience is reportedly improved as well.

One key announcement that Microsoft has made in conjunction with details on the new Live Update is to reveal that the Xbox 360 will be the only game console that is able to stream Netflix content. Microsoft has announced that it has an exclusive partnership with Netflix. That means owners of the Wii and PS3 waiting to join the Netflix streaming service are out of luck.

Account management features will be updated to prompt subscribers to renew their Windows Live IDs and subscriptions when they expire. Gold member Veterans will also get a special card and may get other unnamed perks as well.

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