Xbox Live on Windows Mobile: Why hasn't this happened yet? |
Connect with TechFlash on our Facebook page for all the latest technology news headlines and commentary, plus information and access to special events, photos from events, promotions and more.
Today On Techflash
- Can Microsoft overcome the smartphone app gap?
- Hey recruiters: Here's an R&D lab run by, and for, students
- Microsoft, Apple speak out on patents amid mobile-technology wars
- Apps that waste your time (in a good way): Execs' addictions
- Analyst sees 7-inch iPad in Apple future
- Social bookmarking site Faves.com to shut down
- Hey recruiters: Here's an R&D lab run by, and for, students
- Can Microsoft overcome the smartphone app gap?
- Keiretsu Forum NW invested $24 million in 36 startups in 2011
- Daptiv cuts staff; CEO Franklin departs
- Daptiv is latest tech company to cut jobs
- Daptiv's Pancottine resigns as company seeks new CEO
Mass High Tech
- Microsoft Build: Windows 8 preview a hit, but are investors unhappy?
- Build an app in a day at Mobile App Hackathon
- Beefed-up Skype for Windows; Indie author joins Amazon's 'Kindle Million Club'
- Only solution to Xbox 360 update error is new console
- Ballmer: Windows Phone update 'Mango' has over 500 new features
Xbox Live on Windows Mobile: Why hasn't this happened yet?
“By opening the Xbox Live entertainment network to the entire universe of Windows and mobile gamers, we’re creating unparalleled gameplay opportunities that will drive incredible growth of the online community. Our vision is to deliver consistent, compelling experiences that make it easy for consumers to jump in and play, from any device at any time. It’s a vision that only Microsoft can deliver.” -- Bill Gates, May 2006.
That promise by the Microsoft chairman, made at the E3 video-game convention more than three years ago, popped into my mind yesterday as people got worked up over the "news," first reported by MobileTechWorld that the company is seeking someone to bring Xbox Live to Windows Mobile, including games, avatars and social interaction. [Credit corrected; Thanks, Mike]
Of course, the interesting part isn't the job posting but the fact that the vision from '06 still isn't a reality as the decade draws to a close.
Who knows, maybe Microsoft can use Xbox Live to start reviving Windows Mobile at some point in 2010, but just imagine if the company had been able to channel the user enthusiasm for its online gaming system to bolster its mobile platform back when the company originally announced those plans.
For the record, that promise by Gates came more than a six months before Steve Jobs unveiled the iPhone, and more than a year before Apple actually launched the device.
That's not to imply that Apple has delivered on the vision of cross-platform gaming. Gates was right that Microsoft is in a unique position in that regard, as the owner of a video-game console, a PC operating system, and a mobile platform. But Xbox Live integration could have been a big point of differentiation to help Windows Mobile fend off the iPhone and other rivals over the past few years.
Now, as we move into another new year, the key question isn't what Microsoft will do, but when it will do it -- and whether it's too late.
If you are commenting using a Facebook account, your profile information may be displayed with your comment depending on your privacy settings. By leaving the 'Post to Facebook' box selected, your comment will be published to your Facebook profile in addition to the space below.
TechFlash Team
Recent Sponsor Posts
Who's creating today's energy efficient buildings? Find out at the BetterBricks Awards, Feb. 16
BetterBricks Awards salute the individuals leading the way for high performance commercial buildings with an emphasis on energy efficiency. Join us as we recognize these standout green building professionals.
Award categories include: Advocate; Architect/Designer; Facility Manager/Operator; and Owner/Developer.
Keynote Speaker: Kevin Kampschroer, Director of U.S. GSA's Office of Federal High Performance Buildings. Kevin leads the U.S. General Services Administration's efforts in building sustainability and accelerating industry adoption of sustainable principles across all aspects of a building's life.
Register here by February 10!
If you are interested in buying a table, email Monica Alquist or call her at 206-876-5404.
The Triple Door Presents: The Atomic Bombshells "J'ADORE!: A Burlesque Valentine"
Seattle's reigning Burlesque super-troupe delivers a gorgeous and glittering VALENTINE featuring some of the Bombshells' most exhilarating acts to date. J'Adore! promises to celebrate l'amour with good humor, style, and a healthy dose of dazzle! Bring a friend, a lover, a family member, or a secret crush, and celebrate with the Valentine's Burlesque spectacular that will leave you shouting: "J'ADORE......The Atomic Bombshells!" The incomparable Jasper McCann emcees with high style and charm.
Please visit www.thetripledoor.net for a full schedule of future performances.
The Triple Door Presents: Bob Mould – See A Little Light: An Evening of Reading and Music
"Bob Mould. Those two words are synonymous with integrity. From Husker Du in the last century to right at this moment, Bob is the real deal, writing and playing music for music's sake. He's a great songwriter and performer. I have been a fan of Bob's for thirty years now with no end in sight." -Henry Rollins
Please visit www.thetripledoor.net for a full schedule of future performances.
Why Choose BDO for your SOC (previously SAS 70) Reports?
BDO’s experience in providing attestation services (SAS 70/SSAE 16, AT 101, AT 201, AT 601, etc.) to a broad range of industries, and our team of skilled professionals distinctly qualifies us to serve as your company’s Service Auditor. By leveraging the BDO global network of control specialists, we are poised to provide global services in more than 1,000 offices and across 119 countries. Many organizations find that investing in reports on controls may result in benefits, including:
• Increased client confidence
• Improved competitive advantage
• Minimization of frequent audits
• Streamlined business processes and controls
• Enhanced risk management
For detailed information contact Paul Martini at pmartini@bdo.com.
