Microsoft confesses that it is 'pessimistic' about Broadband Xbox
Oh dear! Microsoft on the ropes
In an interview with the Financial Times, Xbox Chief Executive Steve Ballmer has admitted that Microsoft is concerned about the Xbox’s online future.
"We have grown more pessimistic about this than we were a few years ago . . . it has proceeded more slowly than we expected." He also stated that the slower than expected penetration of broadband across the world may have a negative effect on the console’s sales.
"Xbox allows for broadband connections. But the fundamental reason people will buy Xbox is to play games locally. The strategy for internet gaming is dependent on broadband capability. It is possible that some won't buy the Xbox because they don't have broadband capability. You won't be waiting for the box. You'll be waiting for the speed of the telecom providers."
The Xbox is geared towards broadband online play and it has always, right from its conception, been pitched this way. Back when the project was first announced everyone got very caught up in the idea of a super console from Microsoft. It seemed to have everything anyone could possibly want: A decent hard drive, a powerful processor and graphics chip and would play games at great speed online.
It seemed that no one, not even Microsoft stopped to think that broadband penetration might not get up to speed in time for the launch of the Xbox.
Microsoft has recently ploughed $15 billion into a project aimed at kick-starting further broadband use and the company had hoped that it would see improvements in time to support its console debut. Oops!
So, GameCube Vs Xbox: It is looking like a clear-cut decision for the consumer.
"We have grown more pessimistic about this than we were a few years ago . . . it has proceeded more slowly than we expected." He also stated that the slower than expected penetration of broadband across the world may have a negative effect on the console’s sales.
"Xbox allows for broadband connections. But the fundamental reason people will buy Xbox is to play games locally. The strategy for internet gaming is dependent on broadband capability. It is possible that some won't buy the Xbox because they don't have broadband capability. You won't be waiting for the box. You'll be waiting for the speed of the telecom providers."
The Xbox is geared towards broadband online play and it has always, right from its conception, been pitched this way. Back when the project was first announced everyone got very caught up in the idea of a super console from Microsoft. It seemed to have everything anyone could possibly want: A decent hard drive, a powerful processor and graphics chip and would play games at great speed online.
It seemed that no one, not even Microsoft stopped to think that broadband penetration might not get up to speed in time for the launch of the Xbox.
Microsoft has recently ploughed $15 billion into a project aimed at kick-starting further broadband use and the company had hoped that it would see improvements in time to support its console debut. Oops!
So, GameCube Vs Xbox: It is looking like a clear-cut decision for the consumer.
Read More Like This