Microsoft boss Steve Ballmer took the stage at CES and gave us just what we were expecting — numbers. He revealed several staggering statistics, most of which centered on how well the Xbox 360 continues to perform at retail. Of note was the figure of 50 million Xbox 360s shipped since launch, as well as 8 million units of the motion-sensing Kinect hardware which debuted just over two months ago. These numbers are of units shipped to retail stores, and the actual figure of systems and Kinect sensors currently in the hands of consumers is lower.
Speaking of Kinect, Microsoft is continuing to add features to make it an even more appealing value proposition. On the docket for the first quarter of 2011, they plan to add Kinect-based controls for both the Netflix and Hulu Plus streaming video applications. Allowing you to simply speak the name of the show you wish you wish to watch, and let the Xbox do the rest.
Your Xbox 360 Avatars will also be getting in on the Kinect action with the introduction of Avatar Kinect. Acting as a bit of an Avatar social network, it will allow you to socialize with your Xbox Live friends by gathering in over a dozen different themed meeting places. From there, you can chat about what game to play, discuss the latest gossip, or just act crazy and then post the clip straight to Facebook for your friends and family to enjoy.
Microsoft plans upgrades for Xbox 360 Kinect, Avatars
50 million Xbox 360s have been shipped since launch, with no sign of slowing down
Gaming | Hulu | Netflix | CES 2011 | Motion Gaming | Show All
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