Microsoft Ties Xbox 360 to Windows XP Media Center

Microsoft is planning to release a software update to Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 that will enable customers to take advantage of the Media Center Extender technologies built into Xbox 360 gaming systems to access digital entertainment anywhere in the home.


The Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 experience will be accessible on Xbox 360 systems by pressing the green button on the new Xbox 360 remote control. Xbox 360 will let players stream high-definition TV and movies stored on Media Center PCs, allowing them to watch a high-definition sports event while they chat with friends in other parts of the country who are watching the same game. Or they can receive a friend's invitation to play a game while watching live television.


Microsoft said sales of Media Center PCs passed the 2 million mark in April.


"By integrating diverse technology expertise and innovations across the company, Microsoft is able to deliver rich digital entertainment experiences that consumers have been asking for," said Robbie Bach, chief Xbox officer at Microsoft. "The Windows XP Media Center Extender technologies in Xbox 360 will make the living room a place where both experiences seamlessly converge and are easy to enjoy."http://www.microsoft.com