Microsoft still working on DirecTV for Media Center

Windows Media Center fans have been dreaming of having access to DirecTV's programming for at least two years, and just when we think both companies have let the idea fade away, we get new clues that it might actually happen. According to a recent job posting, Microsoft is looking for a qualified individual to help it develop "premium TV experiences from world class satellite TV network operators" with experience in pay-per-view, H.264 and in-band programming data. Currently, Media Center uses the internet to obtain its programming data, but just like the DirecTiVo before it, Media Center looks to get the information via satellite from DirecTV. Mostly, we're just happy that both companies are (apparently) still working to make this happen, but having access to PPV is just icing on the cake and a new experience for Media Center fans.

[Via Chris Lanier's Blog]

[Andrew @ Dec 21st 2007 12:04PM]

Hell, we're still realistically trying to access Cable on MCE. The only way to actually get cable properly is to have a CableCARD certified PC which is BS. IPTV is going to be the way to go soon.

[paragraph @ Dec 21st 2007 12:09PM]

I don't know about everyone else, but i could use my media center with DTV... i just hooked the box up before the Media center, and controlled the channel from the box...

Now that I use my 360 as my media extender i just watch TV on my TV... i don't mind having lots of boxes... isn't that what TV stands are for?

[tv @ Dec 21st 2007 1:37PM]

The purpose of this (and cablecard) is the record (and stream) the content in HD. Without specific modified Sat set-top boxes, this can't be done, AFAIK.

[Flashpoint @ Dec 21st 2007 12:20PM]

XBOX 720

[Matthew Hilario @ Dec 21st 2007 12:21PM]

more like nintendo wiiiii

[Phi Nguyen @ Dec 21st 2007 1:56PM]

More like Intel Vii(v)!!!!

[The Jerk @ Dec 21st 2007 12:47PM]

At first glance, I thought this was going to be another Wii knockoff article. I can see I'm not alone.

[Jonathan Bergeron @ Dec 21st 2007 1:10PM]

why do people reference the Wii in almost every post Engadget does? I don't understand the big deal with it.

[packetsniffer @ Dec 21st 2007 2:36PM]

@Jonathan Bergeron
The same reason they mention the iPhone in every post.

[TrikinCurt @ Dec 21st 2007 12:50PM]

paragraph,

The problem is you are at Svideo resolution at best, in the world of HDTV that just isn't enough.

[Jonathan Bergeron @ Dec 21st 2007 1:08PM]

That's a cool looking computer. What brand is it?

[Bob Sintas @ Dec 21st 2007 1:30PM]

Jonathan, here ya go:

http://www.engadgethd.com/2006/01/17/ecs-elitegroup-p60-first-of-many-viiv-devices/

[Ashley Allen @ Dec 21st 2007 1:46PM]

This is one of the biggest things I'm looking forward to gadgetwise. I've been waiting for this for ages.

I hope Sky get it sorted for the UK. Since they are the only real provider of HD services in the UK, yeah others do them but they don't have Sky's HD sports or Movies.

[Steve K. @ Dec 21st 2007 9:24PM]

Give me DTV with my 360!!

[Dorv @ Dec 21st 2007 4:26PM]

I'm with you. This is a Killer App for me. I want this to happen BADLY.