Xboxist

Could The Xbox 360 Actually Replace Your Cable Box

Microsoft has always stated that they wanted the Xbox 360 to be the center of your home theater, and they continue to evolve the console to make it just that. With the latest update though, you have to wonder if the Xbox 360 is poised to actually replace your cable box.

Microsoft is set to release the latest Xbox 360 Dashboard Update, and will do so by bringing forth a great deal of new content to the video game console.

The Xbox 360 is set-up to be partnered with the major cable companies in the U.S. as well as Europe, and will be working with them to bring content providers' shows on the console.

This is going to begin with entertainment such as ESPN, MSNBC, UFC on Xbox LIVE, TMZ, YouTube, MSN, Crackle, Xfinity On Demand, MLB TV, HBO GO, CinemaNow, and many others.

All of this content is going to be completely free, with the exception of certain subscriptions that you may need to go along with your Xbox Live Gold membership.

So this begs the question, will the Xbox 360 soon replace your cable box?

Microsoft has partnered with cable provider Comcast in the U.S. to provide Xfinity On Demand, meaning that the same on-demand service Comcast subscribers get on their cable box will now be obtainable right on their Xbox 360.

This is going to continue to expand further in the months and years to come, and is laying the foundation for what Microsoft clearly believes is the next evolution of Xbox Live and the Xbox franchise.

With social network support already built into the Xbox 360, there are starting to be far fewer reasons to do anything for entertainment purposes other than turn on your Xbox 360 and enjoy.