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Microsoft launches family timer for Xbox 360
Microsoft has finally released its 'Family Timer' for the Xbox 360, a long rumored update which was only recently confirmed by MS exec Robbie Bach last month. Once applied, the timer can be used to adjust and set the amount of available console playtime "on a daily or weekly basis...and the feature will automatically turn off the console when the predetermined time limit has been exceeded." Thankfully Microsoft has included reminders which it says will appear to notify players when their time is growing short, so hopefully they can make a mad dash for the nearest save point instead of being cut off without warning.Interestingly, Microsoft notes that this feature came about as a result of two independent surveys conducted by the company throughout Europe and the United States, which included 800 parents in the US and some 4,000 parents in the U.K., France, Germany and Italy. According to the company, the surveys found that the majority of respondents (75% in Europe, 62% in the US) welcomed the idea of having such parental controls built into their game consoles, though it remains to be seen how many of said parents will actually take the time to implement and use the controls now that they are available.
Microsoft confirms new Xbox 360 Parent Tools
Sorry kiddies, your days of unlimited 360 playtime -- which seem primarily dedicated to screaming pre-pubescently into your headset while you trash us in Halo 3 -- are numbered. As rumored, Microsoft is unveiling new a new Xbox 360 Family Timer control for concerned parents that allows them to limit console time on a per-day or per-week basis. The child will be notified when they're play time is nearing an end, and the console will shut off once the limit is hit. The timer will be available in December as a download on Xbox LIVE. Microsoft is also teaming up with the Parent Teacher Association and Jerry Rice to raise awareness and plug "PACT," a family contract meant to get kids and parents talking about video game limits.
Xbox 360 parental timer coming in December?
Xbox 360 addicts, particularly ones under the age of 18 (or still camping out in your 'rents crib), take note: a "Family Timer" could be wrecking your habitual play as early as next month. The above image was reportedly spotted in the pamphlet of a Guitar Hero III keychain (we know...), and it touts the timer's ability to easily limit how much time kids spend on the console. If this proves legitimate, the new functionality will be available via Xbox Live next month, and there's even an option to "suspend or add time" depending on how those report cards turn out. Parents, we know how much flak you'll be getting should you activate this "feature" right around the holidays, but hey, just tell those immature youngsters of yours that you're simply following in the footsteps of Bill Gates himself.[Via Joystiq]
