The Xbox One: Not just for gamers

JOE's Early Adopters looks at the latest in tech news, and today, we're taking a closer look at the Xbox One. What will it mean for the future of Xbox and will it live up to the hype?

Microsoft finally revealed their much-anticipated next gen console the Xbox One at a fancy event in the US yesterday afternoon, but it left a little to be desired.

There was lots of speculation leading up to the event, including what the new console’s name would be and the rumour that the controller would look worlds different from the last, but what was revealed was a tad anticlimactic.

Instead of being called the Xbox 720, or Xbox Infinity as many had guessed, it was simply called the Xbox One, and the controller doesn’t have a touch pad like the new PS4 controller does.

However, the rather boring name of ‘Xbox One’ does serve a purpose. This isn’t another device for gamers to waste away countless hours in the dark, oh no. This is a completely new device that will cater to all your entertainment needs and buying it just for the gaming aspect would be a bit of a waste - think of it as an 'All-in-One' entertainment system. Basically, it's a brand new entertainment medium and we're sure some are already looking forward to Xbox Two...

Anyway, back to the matter at hand. Xbox One will integrate various entertainment formats like Netflix, Hulu and various other channels, as Microsoft want you to use your Xbox One as the main source of entertainment in the living room.

While this might seem pretty cool, it will come with a cost. While the integrated TV formats might work well in the US, it might take some time before you’ll be able to use your Xbox One to it’s full potential over here in Ireland.

The aim of the PS4 is to focus on the social aspect of gaming, but the Xbox One will look closer to living room as a whole (and not just to the gamer) and while this might be a ground breaking leap forward for Xbox, it might just be a bit too soon for it’s hardcore fans. We'll see later in the year when the console goes on sale.

One thing is for sure, if you're planning on getting the Xbox One then you'd want to think about upgrading to the fastest broadband around so you can enjoy your music and movies without interruption. Check out what the lads at Magnet have to offer...