Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Comcast fires back over Xfinity TV on Xbox 360, says no way, no how it's violating net neutrality]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/comcast-fires-back-over-xfinity-tv-on-xbox-360-net-neutrality-concerns/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/comcast-fires-back-over-xfinity-tv-on-xbox-360-net-neutrality-concerns/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/comcast-fires-back-over-xfinity-tv-on-xbox-360-net-neutrality-concerns/#comments Comcast Xfinity TV on Xbox 360

Complaints by Netflix's Reed Hastings and a handful of politicians must have rankled Comcast CTO Tony Werner, as he just posted a particularly detailed explanation of why Comcast believes the Xfinity TV app on the Xbox 360 isn't violating net neutrality. We'd previously heard the argument that the Xfinity app's traffic is simply being routed through Comcast's internal network and isn't the same as the Internet data of Netflix, but Werner now contends that the Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP) tags that some think are breaking FCC rules by favoring Xfinity video are really just necessary switches. They're not prioritizing traffic, they're setting it aside, the claim goes. Of course, Hastings and others believe that setting Xfinity video aside is prioritizing, and Comcast's point of view sidesteps the practical reality that watching Netflix, Amazon Instant Video or iTunes will lead you closer to that ever-present 250GB cap while Xfinity doesn't. The FCC during its rulemaking warned against special private services being used as end-runs around neutrality concerns; it's up to the agency to decide whether or not that's true here, or whether Comcast is just offering its usual service in a new way.

Comcast fires back over Xfinity TV on Xbox 360, says no way, no how it's violating net neutrality originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 May 2012 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcastComcast XfinityComcastXfinityFCChdpostcrossInternetip tvIPTVMicrosoftNet NeutralityNetflixNetNeutralitystreamingtelevisiontvtv streamingTvStreamingvideovideo streamingVideoStreamingxbox 360Xbox360xfinityxfinity tvxfinity tv appXfinityTvXfinityTvAppTue, 15 May 2012 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Reed Hastings takes Comcast to task for skirting net neutrality]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/reed-hastings-takes-comcast-to-task-for-skirting-net-neutrality/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/reed-hastings-takes-comcast-to-task-for-skirting-net-neutrality/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/reed-hastings-takes-comcast-to-task-for-skirting-net-neutrality/#comments Reed Hastings takes comcast to task

Netflix CEO Reed Hastings let loose a mini rant on Facebook Sunday, setting his sites squarely on Comcast and its data accounting practices. Highlighting one of the arguments for net neutrality, Hastings pointed out that viewing streaming videos using the Comcast Xfinity app on his Xbox doesn't count against his monthly cap, but other services do. "If I watch last night's SNL episode on my Xbox through the Hulu app, it eats up about one gigabyte of my cap, but if I watch that same episode through the Xfinity Xbox app, it doesn't use up my cap at all." It's slightly odd that different rules would apply to the same device using the same connection to stream the same content from different sources -- and exactly the sort of preferential and self-promoting behavior that net neutrality advocates are afraid will become the norm in an unregulated market. Of course, Hastings is also irate because his own company would love the same preferential treatment, but hasn't been able to close any deals. For the full rant hit up the source link.

Reed Hastings takes Comcast to task for skirting net neutrality originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcasthdpostcrossmicrosoftnet neutralitynetflixNetNeutralityreed hastingsReedHastingsxboxxbox 360Xbox360xfinityxfinity tvXfinityTvMon, 16 Apr 2012 14:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix for Xbox 360 updates with better contrast and episode navigation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/09/netflix-for-xbox-360-updates-with-better-contrast-and-episode-na/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/09/netflix-for-xbox-360-updates-with-better-contrast-and-episode-na/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/09/netflix-for-xbox-360-updates-with-better-contrast-and-episode-na/#comments Netflix for Xbox 360 updates with better contrast and episode navigationGot both an Xbox LIVE Gold membership and a Netflix account? Well, you'll be treated to a slightly revamped steaming video app on your 360 today. The tweaks are nothing ground-breaking, but they'll certainly deliver some welcome changes. New navigation options allow you to skip around movies much quicker during playback and even jump immediately to the next episode of a show. If you're one of those folks that's still rockin' a 4:3 screen you can use zoom to transform your letterbox video into a fullscreen clip. There's also a new single sign on feature for easily accessing your Netflix account across multiple consoles and improved contrast to make movies more vivid. Go fire up Netflix on your Xbox 360 to get the update now.

Netflix for Xbox 360 updates with better contrast and episode navigation originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappshdpostcrossmicrosoftmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360netflixstreaming videoStreamingVideoxboxxbox 360Xbox360Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamers spending more time streaming video to their consoles, Nielsen finds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/gamers-spending-more-time-streaming-video-to-their-consoles-nie/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/gamers-spending-more-time-streaming-video-to-their-consoles-nie/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/gamers-spending-more-time-streaming-video-to-their-consoles-nie/#comments
Nielsen, the purveyor of all things statistical and demographic, published a new study this week on game console usage within the US. According to the report, released on Wednesday, gamers this year spent notably more time streaming video to their consoles than they did in 2010, due in large part to the growing availability of services like Netflix, Hulu, MLB Network and ESPN3. Xbox 360 users spent 14 percent of their console time streaming video this year (compared with ten percent last year), PlayStation 3 owners devoted 15 percent (nine percent in 2010), and Nintendo Wii users spent a whopping 33 percent -- a 13 percent increase over last year's study. Each console, moreover, seems to appeal to different functions. Xbox 360 users, for example, devoted 34 percent of their time to online gaming, Wii owners spent 55 percent of their console time on offline gaming, and the PS3 was the device of choice for DVD and Blu-Ray viewing, comprising 22 percent of usage. Overall, Nielsen found that usage increased by seven percent over the last year across all three platforms, which suggests that streaming may be keeping us glued to our consoles for even longer. Read more at the source link below.

Gamers spending more time streaming video to their consoles, Nielsen finds originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-Rayconsoledemographicsdvdespn3hdpostminihulumicrosoftmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360mlb networkMlbNetworknetflixnielsennintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiioffline gamingOfflineGamingonline gamingOnlineGamingplaystation 3Playstation3ps3reportsonysony playstation 3SonyPlaystation3statsstreamingstudyvideovideo on demandVideoOnDemandwiixbox 360Xbox360Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360-dashboard-update-fall-2011-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360-dashboard-update-fall-2011-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360-dashboard-update-fall-2011-review/#comments Kiss that old "New Xbox Experience" goodbye -- the Xbox Dashboard just went full Metro. Microsoft teased the console's latest overhaul back at E3, promising to "change living room entertainment forever." The following months saw leaks, previews and betas, all leading up to today, the eve of the Xbox 360's Fall Dashboard update. Is the new dash the game-changer it hopes to be? Hit the break, and we'll find out together.

Gallery: Xbox Live 2011 Fall Dashboard update

Continue reading Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011)

Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsBingbing controlbing searchBingControlBingSearchdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateengadget awardsengadget awards 2011EngadgetAwardsEngadgetAwards2011Facebookfall dashboard updatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdateFallDashboardUpdate2011gaminghdpostcrossHuluimpressionskinectkinect voiceKinectVoiceMetroMetro UIMetroUiMicrMicrosoftMicrosoft Windowsmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360netflixnetflix appNetflixAppreviewSci/Techvoice controlVoiceControlWindows MobilexboxXbox 360Xbox 360 ControllerXbox LiveXbox360ZuneMon, 05 Dec 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Bing brings the holiday gold, offers free Xbox Live preview for Thanksgiving weekend]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/bing-brings-the-holiday-gold-offers-free-xbox-live-preview-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/bing-brings-the-holiday-gold-offers-free-xbox-live-preview-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/bing-brings-the-holiday-gold-offers-free-xbox-live-preview-for/#comments Need something to do while your loved ones slave over hot stoves and turkey platters? Microsoft and Bing have got your back, offering gamers another free Xbox Live Gold weekend to help you frag your way through the holiday. Of course, if you're feeling too sedentary to twitch your thumbs, you can always veg out with your Netflix queue or use the console's ESPN app to get your traditional Thanksgiving sports fix. Either way, you're golden until the 27th -- after that, you'll need to pony up and subscribe. Don't have an Xbox 360, you say? We hear there are some deals floating around that might help you fix that.

Bing brings the holiday gold, offers free Xbox Live preview for Thanksgiving weekend originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 20:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bingESPNESPN3freefree xbox weekendFreeXboxWeekendMicrosoftMicrosoft Xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360minipostNetflixNetflix IncthanksgivingXboxxbox 360Xbox Livexbox live goldxbox live gold previewxbox live gold weekendXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveGoldXboxLiveGoldPreviewXboxLiveGoldWeekendThu, 24 Nov 2011 20:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix spins DVD-by-mail service off into Qwikster, says it's 'done' with price changes (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/netflix-spins-dvd-by-mail-service-off-into-qwikster-says-its/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/netflix-spins-dvd-by-mail-service-off-into-qwikster-says-its/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/netflix-spins-dvd-by-mail-service-off-into-qwikster-says-its/#comments Over on Netflix's official blog, company head Reed Hastings has announced in a surprisingly humble blog post and video (embedded after the break) that it's splitting the DVD-by-mail business away into a new venture dubbed Qwikster. While the recent price changes already split the cost for each service, when this takes effect in a few weeks it will result in two different websites, two different sets of movie ratings and queues, and two different charges on customer's bills. He admits two separate sites may make it more difficult to manage a presence on both, but says dropping the need for compatibility between the two will enable new features to balance that out. Another change? Netflix Qwikster (is there anything good about that name?) is getting into video game rentals, available for an extra charge similar to the existing Blu-ray disc option.

While the blog post blames a lack of communication for much of the backlash (and obviously cancellations), it's about to become very clear that Netflix is "primarily a streaming company." Also mentioned is "substantial" additional streaming content coming in the next few months. Whatever the company calls itself, charges, or changes on its website, if Netflix wants to talk its way back into subscriber's good graces, starting with something new to watch is the way to do it.

Continue reading Netflix spins DVD-by-mail service off into Qwikster, says it's 'done' with price changes (video)

Netflix spins DVD-by-mail service off into Qwikster, says it's 'done' with price changes (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andy RendichAndyRendichbreaking newsdvddvd by mailDvdByMailgaminghd streaminghdpostcrossHdStreamingmicrosoftnetflixplaystationplaystation 3Playstation3ps3Qwiksterreed hastingsReedHastingssonystreamstreamingvideoxbox 360Xbox360Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:33:00 EST<![CDATA[25 percent of Netflix users stream on the Wii, think composite cables are just fine]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/25-percent-of-netflix-users-stream-on-the-wii-think-composite-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/25-percent-of-netflix-users-stream-on-the-wii-think-composite-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/25-percent-of-netflix-users-stream-on-the-wii-think-composite-c/#comments We all know that streaming Hoarders and other guilty pleasures via the interwebs has taken off over the past few years. No news there. However, what may be surprising is that, despite the ability to stream in HD to a number of other devices (including your computer), a quarter of all Netflix subscribers view Swamp People by way of the Wii. That's right, 1080p doesn't matter for these folks, who prefer to live the simple life... and by that we mean life in standard def. Most viewers prefer to watch instantly via PC for both Netflix and Hulu, with a whopping 89 percent of Plus customers taking this route to catch up on The Daily Show. With those looking to ditch the red envelope and, you know, with Mad Men now available, Wii viewers are sure to increase as a new console is just around the corner. Because nothing says 1960s drama like 480p, right?

25 percent of Netflix users stream on the Wii, think composite cables are just fine originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 06:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hulumicrosoftmicrosoft xboxMicrosoft Xbox 360MicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360mircosoft xboxmoviesNeilsen ratingsNeilsenRatingsnetflixNielsennintendo wiiNintendoWiiPlaystation 3Playstation3pollPS3sonysony ps3SonyPs3streamingsurveytvwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyWiixboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLiveThu, 28 Jul 2011 06:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix for Xbox 360 updated with Kinect support, everybody wave!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/netflix-for-xbox-360-updated-with-kinect-support-everybody-wave/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/netflix-for-xbox-360-updated-with-kinect-support-everybody-wave/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/netflix-for-xbox-360-updated-with-kinect-support-everybody-wave/#comments The next time you hit the Netflix app on your Xbox 360 the update we heard about at CES will be waiting, bringing Kinect owners the ability to flick through their videos (like ESPN3 and Zune have since the peripheral launched) without digging a controller out of the couch cushions. After the 43Mb update downloads waving ones hand for the camera or saying Xbox will pull up the new menu seen above, which auto sorts selections for browsing by voice or gesture based on what it thinks you may want to watch next. Selecting "browse all" brings you right back to the standard menu and is probably the method most will want to stick with, however being able to pause the movie quickly during playback by simply saying Xbox, Pause (or FF, rewind, skip scene, etc.) is quite convenient. Not near your Xbox? Check out a brief video of it in action after the break.

[Thanks, George]

Continue reading Netflix for Xbox 360 updated with Kinect support, everybody wave!

Netflix for Xbox 360 updated with Kinect support, everybody wave! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gesture controlGestureControlhands-onkinectmicrosoftnetflixstreamingvideovoice controlVoiceControlwatch instantlyWatchInstantlywavexboxxbox 360Xbox360Thu, 14 Apr 2011 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix and Hulu Plus with Kinect coming this spring to Xbox 360]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/netflix-and-hulu-plus-with-kinect-coming-this-spring/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/netflix-and-hulu-plus-with-kinect-coming-this-spring/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/netflix-and-hulu-plus-with-kinect-coming-this-spring/#comments Good news, Hulu Plus is finally coming to Xbox 360 this spring. Better news, both Hulu Plus and Netflix will be compatible with Kinect. We imagine it'll be just like Zune Video's interface, but there really wasn't much of a demo during Ballmer's keynote tonight. Excited? We are.

Gallery: Netflix and Hulu Plus for Kinect

Netflix and Hulu Plus with Kinect coming this spring to Xbox 360 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewscesces 2011ces2011huluhulu plusHuluPlusmicrosoftnetflixxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLiveWed, 05 Jan 2011 21:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix CEO says consumers just aren't interested in long-form video on portable devices]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/18/netflix-ceo-says-consumers-just-arent-interested-in-long-form-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/18/netflix-ceo-says-consumers-just-arent-interested-in-long-form-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/18/netflix-ceo-says-consumers-just-arent-interested-in-long-form-v/#comments We were undeniably excited about Netflix coming to the iPhone and iPad, but according to CEO Reed Hastings -- who spoke on the subject during a Web 2.0 Summit panel discussion -- that move has actually had little impact on the company's business. In his mind, these results indicate that consumers just aren't interested in streaming long-form video on mobile devices and instead prefer the experience on bigger screens. To support his conclusion, Hastings cited how Netflix integration on the Xbox 360, PS3, and Mac significantly grew its subscriber base. While we personally disagree with his judgment on mobile and grant him honorary captain obvious credentials for his bigger screen preference remarks, we'll still entertain the possibility that Hastings may know somethings we don't. That's not to say the phrase correlation does not imply causation isn't tickling the back our throat though. But what about you, reader? Are you taking advantage of the little red app on your Apple portable devices or even on your new Windows Phone 7 handset? Hit the poll on the next page to tell us what's up.

Continue reading Netflix CEO says consumers just aren't interested in long-form video on portable devices

Netflix CEO says consumers just aren't interested in long-form video on portable devices originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 04:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipadIpadAppiphoneiPhone AppsIphoneAppsMacmobile entertainmentMobileEntertainmentNetflixnetflix appnetflix applicationnetflix streamingNetflixAppNetflixApplicationNetflixStreamingps3reed hastingsReedHastingsstreaming-videoweb 2.0web 2.0 expo 2010Web2.0Web2.0Expo2010windows phone 7WindowsPhone7xbox 360Xbox360Thu, 18 Nov 2010 04:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows Phone 7, Canadian Xbox 360s get Netflix streaming today]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/windows-phone-7-canadian-xbox-360s-get-netflix-streaming-today/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/windows-phone-7-canadian-xbox-360s-get-netflix-streaming-today/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/windows-phone-7-canadian-xbox-360s-get-netflix-streaming-today/#comments Microsoft may have missed out on being the first to stream Netflix in 1080p with surround sound, but it's still improving access to the service with a new app for Windows Phone 7 arriving on the same day a dashboard update brings Watch Instantly access to Xbox 360-owning Canadians. The free app should be easily found in the Marketplace Video Store, but just in case you don't have an HTC Surround or similar device in your immediate vicinity check out this demo from March embedded after the break.

Continue reading Windows Phone 7, Canadian Xbox 360s get Netflix streaming today

Windows Phone 7, Canadian Xbox 360s get Netflix streaming today originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appcanadamicrosoftnetflixvideovideo streamingVideoStreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlywindows phone 7WindowsPhone7xbox 360Xbox360Mon, 01 Nov 2010 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Fall 2010 Dashboard Update preview: ESPN, Netflix search, Kinect, and more! (Update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/xbox-live-fall-2010-dashboard-update-preview-espn-netflix-sear/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/xbox-live-fall-2010-dashboard-update-preview-espn-netflix-sear/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/xbox-live-fall-2010-dashboard-update-preview-espn-netflix-sear/#comments Shortly before Kinect hits store shelves on November 4th, Microsoft plans on rolling out the Fall Update to Xbox Live -- even sooner for those who signed up for the preview program. That shouldn't come as much of a surprise, really: even without the numerous leaks, the fall update is a longstanding tradition for the almost five-year-old console, and the company devoted a large chunk of its E3 2010 presentation to talk about the biggest additions. That includes Netflix search (finally!), Zune music, and an entertainment hub for a certain worldwide sports broadcaster... ESPN. We've had a chance to spend some time at home with the Fall Update, follow us after the break for our full impressions!

Update: As both Joystiq and a number of tipsters have alerted us, Microsoft has pulled the large, wooden lever in its dark underground lair that allows for the Fall Update to trickle out and assimilate itself into the consoles of those smart enough to sign up for the preview program. If you receive a prompt upon signing in, rejoice! If not, well, have patience!

P.S. - Looking for more? Our BFFs at Joystiq have compiled a series of exhaustive videos chronicling the Fall Update. Check it out!

Gallery: Xbox Live Fall 2010 Dashboard Update preview

Continue reading Xbox Live Fall 2010 Dashboard Update preview: ESPN, Netflix search, Kinect, and more! (Update)

Xbox Live Fall 2010 Dashboard Update preview: ESPN, Netflix search, Kinect, and more! (Update) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 22:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360dashboardespnespn 3Espn3impressionskinectliveLiveBlogmicrosoftnatalnetflixnetflix searchNetflixSearchpreviewproject natalProjectNatalxboxxbox 360xbox dashboardxbox livexbox live dashboardxbox live dashboard updateXbox360XboxDashboardXboxLiveXboxLiveDashboardXboxLiveDashboardUpdatezunezune musiczune passZuneMusicZunePassWed, 29 Sep 2010 22:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect, the new Xbox 360, and ESPN: highlights from Microsoft at E3 2010]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/14/kinect-the-new-xbox-360-and-espn-highlights-from-microsofts/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/14/kinect-the-new-xbox-360-and-espn-highlights-from-microsofts/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/14/kinect-the-new-xbox-360-and-espn-highlights-from-microsofts/#comments My, what big showing you have there, Microsoft. We're still recovering from today and yesterday's big Xbox 360 Kinect unveiling party, but let's take a brief trip down short-term memory lane. First, Project Natal became Kinect, unveiled a handful of interesting / guaranteed-to-embarrass uses, and solidified its November release date. Then ESPN3 made an impressive debut on Xbox Live. Finally, the piece de resistance, a slimmed down Xbox 360 250GB that came (almost) out of nowhere and hits retail as soon as physically possible. Everywhere Microsoft was this past 24 hours, so were we:

Liveblog
The new, slim Xbox 360
Kinect
Other news of import
Galleries

Continue reading Kinect, the new Xbox 360, and ESPN: highlights from Microsoft at E3 2010

Kinect, the new Xbox 360, and ESPN: highlights from Microsoft at E3 2010 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 22:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360breaking newsBreakingNewse3e3 2010E32010espnespn3hands-onkinectnatalnetflixnew xbox 360NewXbox360project natalProjectNatalxboxxbox 360Xbox360zuneMon, 14 Jun 2010 22:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix for Xbox 360 adds search in November]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/14/netflix-for-xbox-360-adds-search-in-november/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/14/netflix-for-xbox-360-adds-search-in-november/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/14/netflix-for-xbox-360-adds-search-in-november/#comments It didn't get a slot during Microsoft's just-concluded Xbox 360 press conference, but the Netflix streaming app will finally add one of the most often requested (and denied) features: the ability to search through the entire Watch Instantly library and add movies to your queue, right from the console. Proudly stating it's the first gaming console to let you update your queue without a computer (Roku does it too, but try playing Gears of War on that) there's no word on any Kinect tie-ins, probably the reason it didn't get any higher billing than a bullet point in Marc Whitten's 2010 letter to Xbox Live members.

Update: As a few commenters have pointed out, it appears Netflix has been beta testing search access for PlayStation 3 Watch Instantly viewers, as shown in these pics. If you'd like to get in on the trial good luck as it seems to be mostly by chance, although creating an all new account probably couldn't hurt -- and hey, your queue was getting stale anyway. [Thanks, Michael]

Gallery: PlayStation 3 Netflix search

Netflix for Xbox 360 adds search in November originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3 2010E32010microsoftnetflixsearchstreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyxbox 360Xbox360Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft kicks out $50 rebate for $299 Xbox 360 Elite]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/microsoft-kicks-out-50-rebate-for-299-xbox-360-elite/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/microsoft-kicks-out-50-rebate-for-299-xbox-360-elite/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/microsoft-kicks-out-50-rebate-for-299-xbox-360-elite/#comments
Didn't Microsoft's Xbox 360 Elite just drop to $299, like, three weeks ago? Yes, yes it did. Evidently that cut just wasn't deep enough for Microsoft (or else it had a change of heart following the release of Sony's $299 PS3 Slim), as the Redmond mega-corp has today lit up a new mail-in rebate program to bring the cost down to $249. Consoles purchased between today (sorry, Monday shoppers!) and October 5th are eligible, and it's anyone's guess as to what'll happen to the 360 lineup come October 6th. So, is Santa coming early for anyone this year, or what?

[Via Major Nelson, thanks Logan]

Read - Rebate page
Read - Microsoft release

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Microsoft kicks out $50 rebate for $299 Xbox 360 Elite originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolediscountgame consoleGameConsolegamingmicrosoftnetflixrebatesalexbox 360Xbox 360 eliteXbox360Xbox360EliteTue, 22 Sep 2009 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix CEO dreams of iPhone, TV, and game console ubiquity]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/#commentsWhen a CEO is asked to dream we shouldn't be surprised when he dreams big. In an Reuters interview with Netflix CEO, Reed Hastings, we learn that Netflix is working in parallel to bring its services to "all the game consoles, all the Blu-ray players, all the Internet TVs." Naturally, he added that the Xbox deal is exclusive for the time being. The company is currently focused on the big screen but "will get to mobile eventually, including the iPhone." And while the streaming business is "booming," he says the DVD business is still growing as well, likely peaking in "5 years or so" with people still doing DVD-by-mail over the next 20 years. Reed then adjusted his monocle and disappeared in a flash of cigar and brick-and-mortar ash.

[Via All Things Digital]

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Netflix CEO dreams of iPhone, TV, and game console ubiquity originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayiphonemobilenetflixps3reed hastingsReedHastingstvwiixboxxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix CEO dreams of iPhone, TV, and game console ubiquity]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/#commentsWhen a CEO is asked to dream we shouldn't be surprised when he dreams big. In an Reuters interview with Netflix CEO, Reed Hastings, we learn that Netflix is working in parallel to bring its services to "all the game consoles, all the Blu-ray players, all the Internet TVs." Naturally, he added that the Xbox deal is exclusive for the time being. The company is currently focused on the big screen but "will get to mobile eventually, including the iPhone." And while the streaming business is "booming," he says the DVD business is still growing as well, likely peaking in "5 years or so" with people still doing DVD-by-mail over the next 20 years. Reed then adjusted his monocle and disappeared in a flash of cigar and brick-and-mortar ash.

[Via All Things Digital]

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Netflix CEO dreams of iPhone, TV, and game console ubiquity originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayhdinternetiphonenetflixps3reed hastingsReedHastingstvwiixboxxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix CEO dreams of iPhone, TV, and game console ubiquity]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/netflix-ceo-dreams-of-iphone-tv-and-game-console-ubiquity/#commentsWhen a CEO is asked to dream we shouldn't be surprised when he dreams big. In an Reuters interview with Netflix CEO, Reed Hastings, we learn that Netflix is working in parallel to bring its services to "all the game consoles, all the Blu-ray players, all the Internet TVs." Naturally, he added that the Xbox deal is exclusive for the time being. The company is currently focused on the big screen but "will get to mobile eventually, including the iPhone." And while the streaming business is "booming," he says the DVD business is still growing as well, likely peaking in "5 years or so" with people still doing DVD-by-mail over the next 20 years. Reed then adjusted his monocle and disappeared in a flash of cigar and brick-and-mortar ash.

[Via All Things Digital]

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Netflix CEO dreams of iPhone, TV, and game console ubiquity originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayiphonenetflixps3reed hastingsReedHastingstvwiixboxxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox's Aaron Greenberg: Hulu on 360 like "asking out a really hot chick on a date"]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/28/xboxs-aaron-greenberg-hulu-on-360-like-asking-out-a-really-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/28/xboxs-aaron-greenberg-hulu-on-360-like-asking-out-a-really-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/28/xboxs-aaron-greenberg-hulu-on-360-like-asking-out-a-really-ho/#commentsHey, our main dudes over at Joystiq sat down with Xbox's Aaron Greenberg recently, and there are some great bits of info in the interview. Aaron says the big Xbox price cut has been planned for months, so it's "just a coincidence" that it happened right on top of the PS3 Slim -- and he also says he's an avid Joystiq reader, so if Redmond had wanted to get the jump on Sony, they'd have been prepared. Other nuggets: the $99 WiFi adapter isn't coming down in price, the Netflix relationship is going well, and getting Hulu or Amazon Unbox on the 360 is like "asking out a really hot chick on a date, they don't all say yes." Yeah, it's a pretty great interview -- hit the read link for the whole thing.

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Xbox's Aaron Greenberg: Hulu on 360 like "asking out a really hot chick on a date" originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 21:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Like any true HD fan would, we took some time out of our crazy busy Friday night to get a group of HD fans together and test out the new Netflix Movie Party feature in the latest Xbox 360 update. At first we thought the idea is kinda cheesy, but we admit that we did actually like it -- when it worked. We're not sure what the cause was, but during the two hour movie, it stopped to re-syncing about 10 times because someone was disconnected and then rejoined. This is way too often, but hard to know if it is because of a bad connection or if the service just isn't ready for prime time. The other problem we experienced was all on us. The movie we watched was way too serious, and most people weren't talking. Honestly it just seems unnatural to talk during a movie, and we have to say that the novelty of avatars and emotes wore off rather quickly. That being said, we'd like to thank everyone who helped us test it out though, as their chit chat during the interruptions ended up being the best part of the experience.

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A first hand look at the Netflix Movie Parties on the Xbox 360 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdinternetNetflixNetflix Movie PartyNetflixMoviePartyXbox 360Xbox360Sun, 16 Aug 2009 17:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Update has arrived, everything is going to be alright]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/xbox-live-update-has-arrived-everything-is-going-to-be-alright/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/xbox-live-update-has-arrived-everything-is-going-to-be-alright/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/xbox-live-update-has-arrived-everything-is-going-to-be-alright/#comments It was almost a little cruel of Microsoft to offer its Xbox Live Update preview program so widely -- sure, all your stupid friends had the update, with their fancy new avatar clothing purchases and their cutesy little shared virtual Netflix screenings -- but there was you, updateless, sitting all alone, trying to squeeze out a few more experience points in Call of Duty while you held back the tears. Well, your wait is over. The newly improved Xbox 360 dashboard is live for everybody. Games on Demand, User Ratings, Avatar Awards... it's all there. Just ripe for the picking.

Gallery: Xbox Live dashboard update first look


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Xbox Live Update has arrived, everything is going to be alright originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We actually had to brush the fog off of our spectacles to ensure that hazy conditions weren't clouding our comprehension abilities, but sure enough, that Netflix streaming that Xbox LIVE members have grown to love won't ever land on Sony's PlayStation 3 nor on Nintendo's Wii (PlayOn notwithstanding). At the very bottom of Microsoft's long list of details surrounding today's Xbox LIVE update, we're clearly told that the Netflix Watch Instantly integration is now an "exclusive partnership," with Microsoft going so far as to say that the "Xbox 360 will be the only game console to offer this movie-watching experience, available to Xbox LIVE Gold members who are also Netflix unlimited plan subscribers." Of course, we'd heard rumors over the years that Netflix could sashay over to other consoles in due time, but it looks like the suits in Redmond had the foresight to lock things down while they still had a chance. So, are you reconsidering that Xbox 360 purchase, or just looking that much more intently in Roku's direction? Full blurb is after the break.

[Thanks, David]

Continue reading Xbox 360 officially the only console to stream Netflix -- sorry, PS3 and Wii

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Xbox 360 officially the only console to stream Netflix -- sorry, PS3 and Wii originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 07:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsbusinessdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateexclusivehdhd streamingHdStreamingindustryinternetinternet tvInternetTvmicrosoftnetflixnetflix streamingnetflix watch instantlyNetflixStreamingNetflixWatchInstantlyotherspartnerpartnershipstreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyxboxxbox 360Xbox LIVEXbox360XboxLiveTue, 11 Aug 2009 07:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 officially the only console to stream Netflix -- sorry, PS3 and Wii]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/xbox-officially-the-only-console-able-to-stream-netflix-sorry/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/xbox-officially-the-only-console-able-to-stream-netflix-sorry/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/xbox-officially-the-only-console-able-to-stream-netflix-sorry/#comments We actually had to brush the fog off of our spectacles to ensure that hazy conditions weren't clouding our comprehension abilities, but sure enough, that Netflix streaming that Xbox LIVE members have grown to love won't ever land on Sony's PlayStation 3 nor on Nintendo's Wii (PlayOn notwithstanding). At the very bottom of Microsoft's long list of details surrounding today's Xbox LIVE update, we're clearly told that the Netflix Watch Instantly integration is now an "exclusive partnership," with Microsoft going so far as to say that the "Xbox 360 will be the only game console to offer this movie-watching experience, available to Xbox LIVE Gold members who are also Netflix unlimited plan subscribers." Of course, we'd heard rumors over the years that Netflix could sashay over to other consoles in due time, but it looks like the suits in Redmond had the foresight to lock things down while they still had a chance. So, are you reconsidering that Xbox 360 purchase, or just looking that much more intently in Roku's direction? Full blurb is after the break.

[Thanks, David]

Continue reading Xbox 360 officially the only console to stream Netflix -- sorry, PS3 and Wii

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Xbox 360 officially the only console to stream Netflix -- sorry, PS3 and Wii originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 07:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsbusinessdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateexclusivehd streamingHdStreamingindustryinternet tvInternetTvmicrosoftnetflixnetflix streamingnetflix watch instantlyNetflixStreamingNetflixWatchInstantlypartnerpartnershipstreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyxboxxbox 360Xbox LIVEXbox360XboxLiveTue, 11 Aug 2009 07:27:00 EST<![CDATA[ Upcoming Xbox 360 Netflix update is still gimped, Microsoft thinks you want it that way]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/05/upcoming-netflix-update-on-xbox-360-is-still-gimped-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/05/upcoming-netflix-update-on-xbox-360-is-still-gimped-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/05/upcoming-netflix-update-on-xbox-360-is-still-gimped-microsoft/#comments
Upcoming Netflix update on Xbox 360 is still gimped, Microsoft thinks you want it that way
If you haven't been lucky enough to preview the upcoming Xbox Live dashboard update like we did, there's a good chance you're eagerly awaiting its August 11 release so that you can finally modify your Netflix queue straight from the box. If so, prepare to be disappointed... or, uh, thrilled when you find out that the new experience isn't quite as comprehensive as you might have expected. It restricts users to perusing the Top 50 films in any of a handful of categories, meaning no searching by title and no browsing alphabetically. Why? According to Microsoft's Ben Smith, Director of Program Management for Xbox Live, that's how you want it. He says: "I think when people come to Xbox they're not really looking so much for functional, they really want to have fun, they want to be wowed." We're saying "wow," all right, but for entirely different reasons. There is a morsel of good news, though: if enough people indicate they actually like function and want an honest-to-goodness, full-featured Netflix experience Microsoft is fully prepared to upgrade the service. Again. Eventually.

[Via Joystiq]

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Upcoming Xbox 360 Netflix update is still gimped, Microsoft thinks you want it that way originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben smithBenSmithdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatemicrosoftmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360netflixxboxxbox 360xbox 360 dashboard updatexbox 360 netflixXbox360Xbox360DashboardUpdateXbox360NetflixWed, 05 Aug 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360's new Netflix Movie Parties disabled for Starz Play titles?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/25/xbox-360s-new-netflix-movie-parties-disabled-for-starz-flicks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/25/xbox-360s-new-netflix-movie-parties-disabled-for-starz-flicks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/25/xbox-360s-new-netflix-movie-parties-disabled-for-starz-flicks/#comments Ever get a sinking feeling in your stomach, like it's November 2008 all over again? Yes, just like when Sony Pictures blocked its films from Netflix on Demand for a then-fresh New Xbox Experience update, so too are the early adopters of the new Xbox Live Dashboard update seeing select films excluded from the joys of its group sharing "Movie Parties" mode. Our BFFs at Joystiq have done some preliminary testing on the issue, and it seems the common link is that all guilty videos hail from the Starz Play catalog. In other words, you can all but forget about watching Pineapple Express synchronized with your Xbox 360-toting friends and family thousands of miles away -- for now at least. With any luck, like the previous issue with Sony Pictures, this problem will eventually fix itself, and with any luck, it'll be smooth sailing by the time the Xbox Live Dashboard update is officially pushed out to the masses on August 11th. Video proof of the misdemeanor can be seen after the break.

Continue reading Xbox 360's new Netflix Movie Parties disabled for Starz Play titles?

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Xbox 360's new Netflix Movie Parties disabled for Starz Play titles? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 04:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>film sharingFilmSharinghdmicrosoftmicrosoft xboxmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360movie partiesmovie sharingMoviePartiesMovieSharingnetflixnew xbox experienceNewXboxExperiencenxestarzstarz playStarzPlayxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLiveSat, 25 Jul 2009 04:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360's new Netflix Movie Parties disabled for Starz Play titles?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/25/xbox-360s-new-netflix-movie-parties-disabled-for-starz-flicks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/25/xbox-360s-new-netflix-movie-parties-disabled-for-starz-flicks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/25/xbox-360s-new-netflix-movie-parties-disabled-for-starz-flicks/#comments Ever get a sinking feeling in your stomach, like it's November 2008 all over again? Yes, just like when Sony Pictures blocked its films from Netflix on Demand for a then-fresh New Xbox Experience update, so too are the early adopters of the new Xbox Live Dashboard update seeing select films excluded from the joys of its group sharing "Movie Parties" mode. Our BFFs at Joystiq have done some preliminary testing on the issue, and it seems the common link is that all guilty videos hail from the Starz Play catalog. In other words, you can all but forget about watching Pineapple Express synchronized with your Xbox 360-toting friends and family thousands of miles away -- for now at least. With any luck, like the previous issue with Sony Pictures, this problem will eventually fix itself, and with any luck, it'll be smooth sailing by the time the Xbox Live Dashboard update is officially pushed out to the masses on August 11th. Video proof of the misdemeanor can be seen after the break.

Continue reading Xbox 360's new Netflix Movie Parties disabled for Starz Play titles?

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Xbox 360's new Netflix Movie Parties disabled for Starz Play titles? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 04:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>film sharingFilmSharingmicrosoftmicrosoft xboxmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360movie partiesmovie sharingMoviePartiesMovieSharingnetflixnew xbox experienceNewXboxExperiencenxestarzstarz playStarzPlayxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLiveSat, 25 Jul 2009 04:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Dashboard update coming August 11th]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/21/xbox-live-dashboard-update-coming-august-11th/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/21/xbox-live-dashboard-update-coming-august-11th/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/21/xbox-live-dashboard-update-coming-august-11th/#comments Ladies and gentleman, you can now mark your calendars with a permanent pen, felt-tip marker, or even a paint brush. Microsoft's announced that the next Xbox Live Dashboard update is beaming to your console on August 11th. This one includes Games on Demand, user ratings for games, a number of Netflix additions, and the much-anticipated (maybe not) ability to spend actual money on clothing for your Avatar. What it doesn't have is Twitter, Last.fm, and Facebook support, but according to Microsoft, those are still coming sometime later this fall. You went ahead and signed up for the preview program, right?

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Xbox Live Dashboard update coming August 11th originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>games on demandGamesOnDemandmicrosoftnetflixxboxxbox 360xbox livexbox live dashboardxbox live dashboard updatexbox live updateXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveDashboardXboxLiveDashboardUpdateXboxLiveUpdateTue, 21 Jul 2009 15:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live update preview program now accepting applicants]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/xbox-live-update-preview-program-now-accepting-applicants/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/xbox-live-update-preview-program-now-accepting-applicants/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/xbox-live-update-preview-program-now-accepting-applicants/#comments Looking to be in the envy of all your friends Xbox 360 online friends? As they did once before with NXE, Microsoft is launching an update preview program for its upcoming Xbox Live dashboard enhancements, which for this round includes Games on Demand, Netflix movie parties, and user ratings -- better luck next time, Facebook aficionados. A Microsoft Connect account is required for registration, and lucky participants will be notified by July 31st. Hit up the read link to throw your hat (and gamertag) in the ring for a chance to be selected -- no promises you'll get in, but can't hurt to try, right?

[Via Joystiq; thanks, Ken]

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Xbox Live update preview program now accepting applicants originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft just announced the details of the next Xbox Live dashboard update, which should start rolling out in waves later this summer. Highlight features include support for Games on Demand (coming in August), a slew of Netflix updates including the ability to browse the library and manage your queue, the long-awaited Movie Party system that allows Gold members to share a flick in a virtual theater, and a ton of other little tweaks like user ratings, avatar enhancements, friends list sorting, and a streamlined Party invite system. Yeah, we think we'll take it. Full release after the break.

Gallery: Xbox Live Dashboard Update Screenshots

Continue reading Xbox Live update details announced, includes Games on Demand support, Netflix Movie Parties, game ratings

Xbox Live update details announced, includes Games on Demand support, Netflix Movie Parties, game ratings originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 20:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>games on demandGamesOnDemandmicrosoftmicrosoft xboxmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360movie partyMoviePartynetflixparty invitePartyInvitexboxxbox 360xbox livexbox live arcadexbox live dashboardxbox live dashboard updatexbox live updateXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveArcadeXboxLiveDashboardXboxLiveDashboardUpdateXboxLiveUpdateThu, 16 Jul 2009 20:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/#comments
Microsoft is busy announcing a slew of upgrades to Xbox Live, and the biggest news so far is relaunch of the video service, now Zune-branded with 1080p instant-on streaming content in 18 countries. XBL is also now integrated with Facebook -- your Facebook account can be linked to your Gamertag, and games will support Facebook Connect for sharing content online. That's pretty huge -- but if that wasn't enough, you're also getting Twitter and Last.fm in the deal. Want more? Netflix users will now be able to browse the entire catalog instead of simply loading their queue, and Microsoft has also gotten its Party Watch system in order, so you'll be able to heckle videos with your online friends. Last but not least, there's now live TV streaming for UK and Ireland gamers, who'll get Premier League soccer live from Sky. All in all, a solid set of updates for XBL -- but we'll wait and see how that "1080p" video looks before we pronounce Blu-ray dead. PR blurb after the break.

Continue reading Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration

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Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360breaking newsBreakingNewse3e3 2009E32009facebookfacebook connectFacebookConnecthdinternetiptvlsat.fmmicrosoftnetflixother hardwareotherhardwareparty watchPartyWatchskytwitterxblxboxxbox 360Xbox360zunezune marketplaceZuneMarketplaceMon, 01 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/#comments
Microsoft is busy announcing a slew of upgrades to Xbox Live, and the biggest news so far is relaunch of the video service, now Zune-branded with 1080p instant-on streaming content in 18 countries. XBL is also now integrated with Facebook -- your Facebook account can be linked to your Gamertag, and games will support Facebook Connect for sharing content online. That's pretty huge -- but if that wasn't enough, you're also getting Twitter and Last.fm in the deal. Want more? Netflix users will now be able to browse the entire catalog instead of simply loading their queue, and Microsoft has also gotten its Party Watch system in order, so you'll be able to heckle videos with your online friends. Last but not least, there's now live TV streaming for UK and Ireland gamers, who'll get Premier League soccer live from Sky. All in all, a solid set of updates for XBL -- but we'll wait and see how that "1080p" video looks before we pronounce Blu-ray dead. PR blurb after the break.

Continue reading Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration

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Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360breaking newsBreakingNewse3e3 2009E32009facebookfacebook connectFacebookConnectiptvlsat.fmmicrosoftnetflixparty watchPartyWatchskytwitterxblxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLivezunezune marketplaceZuneMarketplaceMon, 01 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony calmly responds to Microsoft / Netflix streaming gains]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/05/sony-calmly-responds-to-microsoft-netflix-streaming-gains/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/05/sony-calmly-responds-to-microsoft-netflix-streaming-gains/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/05/sony-calmly-responds-to-microsoft-netflix-streaming-gains/#commentsGood thing we didn't think Sony PR was sweating the Microsoft / Netflix joint announcement about cracking 1 million Xbox Live / Watch Instantly users, because we might misinterpret this press release as a sign of desperation. We might just be confused enough to think reinterpreting a lack of access to services and options as a money saving bullet point was questionable, or that pooh poohing video streaming, and then touting the ability to stream online content in consecutive bullet points was a somewhat curious strategy. We'll stop the sarcasm now, mentioning our incredibly slow firmware updates in the face of a cited "study" proving faster PSN download times or pointing out our issues with the PlayStation Video Store would likely be going too far. Check the read link and let the straight-laced fellows over at Joystiq (also to thank for the Quincying picture at right) bring you unfettered, intelligent analysis of these points.

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Sony calmly responds to Microsoft / Netflix streaming gains originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 21:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bad news first: there might be a bit more competition than you expected for that home theater giveaway. Good luck bringing down Netflix's shooting star though, as if last week's good news train wasn't enough comes news that over a million Xbox Live Gold members have already downloaded and activated the Watch Instantly app since its NXE debut last November. That's more than 10% of Netflix's just announced 9.4 million subscribers who've already watched over 1.5 billion minutes of TV and movies through their consoles. They're not the only ones happy, while streaming may be eating into DVD rentals, Xbox Live Marketplace rentals are up 174 percent year over year. The streaming library is up to 12,000 titles, with a "growing percentage" in high definition, for the rest of the celebratory details check the full PR after the break. Nothing left for us to say but congratulations and hey, if you get a minute, could you fix Nilay's HD streaming on the Xbox? Thanks.

Continue reading Xbox Live tallies 1 million Netflix Watch Instantly activations, 1.5 billion minutes served

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Xbox Live tallies 1 million Netflix Watch Instantly activations, 1.5 billion minutes served originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bad news first: there might be a bit more competition than you expected for that home theater giveaway. Good luck bringing down Netflix's shooting star though, as if last week's good news train wasn't enough comes news that over a million Xbox Live Gold members have already downloaded and activated the Watch Instantly app since its NXE debut last November. That's more than 10% of Netflix's just announced 9.4 million subscribers who've already watched over 1.5 billion minutes of TV and movies through their consoles. They're not the only ones happy, while streaming may be eating into DVD rentals, Xbox Live Marketplace rentals are up 174 percent year over year. The streaming library is up to 12,000 titles, with a "growing percentage" in high definition, for the rest of the celebratory details check the full PR after the break. Nothing left for us to say but congratulations and hey, if you get a minute, could you fix Nilay's HD streaming on the Xbox? Thanks.

Continue reading Xbox Live tallies 1 million Netflix Watch Instantly activations, 1.5 billion minutes served

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Xbox Live tallies 1 million Netflix Watch Instantly activations, 1.5 billion minutes served originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If you're one of the many streaming Netflix Watch Instantly videos through your Xbox 360, take a sec and download the special contest gamerpic and get entered to win a brand new home theater system plus Xbox accessories. On Xbox Live and for some reason not already streaming Helvetica in HD? Sign up for the trial, download the gamerpic and enter, if you don't then the only one you're hurting is yourself.

[Via Joystiq Xbox]

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Xbox 360 Netflix watchers can win a new home theater originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 06:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This is it, folks -- the shootout you've been waiting for. We've worked with our brethren over at Engadget Classic to assemble an end-all HD Netflix roundup, which pits the BD-P2500, BD300, TiVo HD, Xbox 360 and Roku Netflix Player against one another. We know you're salivating at the thought of it, so rather than just telling you who emerges victorious, we'll point you over and let you dig in yourself.

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Netflix HD streaming shootout goes down at Engadget Classic originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix seems to be doing things right when it comes to the streaming game, partnering with several hardware companies in an attempt to make its service more or less ubiquitous -- a pretty sharp break from the proprietary hardware approach taken by most of its competitors. That means Netflix subscribers have quite a few choices when it comes to streaming, and we thought we'd put the ones available now head-to-head and try to crown a winner. The good news? There isn't a mediocre choice out there. The bad? Well, read on.

Update: We shot another video to answer some lingering questions about the Roku player, check it below.

Continue reading Engadget's Netflix HD streaming shootout

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Engadget's Netflix HD streaming shootout originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 11:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We all remember the terrible tale of NXE-eve, when Superbad, Karate Kid and more went from fully available to not-on-Xbox and in some cases eventually disappeared entirely. Fear not, as whatever the licensing issue was, it appears to have been amicably resolved, sending Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story and many of the rest flowing though a series of tubes near you.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

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Columbia Pictures flicks restored to Netflix Instant Watch originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 20:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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And there was much rejoicing, as Roku and Xbox 360 owners that noticed a distinct lack of clarity in their Instant Watch streams should be seeing much better today. Netflix didn't say which lever was pushed / pulled to achieve the desired result, but thanks to work with "content distribution partners and key carriers" the dreaded one-dot should be long gone. The final report is yours, with boxee users the most recent to logon, anyone still enduring vintage VHS-quality video and lackluster HD, or enyoing the high quality promised land thanks to a newly unclogged series of tubes?

[Via CNET]

Netflix proclaims Roku, Xbox Instant Watch streaming problems resolved originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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