Rumors are flying that the Xbox 360 is set to get a modified version of the Internet Explorer 9 browser. A modified version of the browser coming to the Xbox console means that users will be able to surf the web. That will add yet another feature to the Xbox to lure people to buy that aren’t interested in gaming.
Enhanced Web Browsing Experience
According to the rumors, Microsoft is going a little further and the version of IE9 that the Xbox gets will support gesture control using the Kinect. I can see those gestures being very useful for controlling the web browser from across the room without having to use a normal game controller.
For people not used to playing video games, the controls on an Xbox game controller can be confusing. I think just about anyone will be able to pick up simple hand gestures to control web navigation. We expect to hear more at E3 next month.
The integration of Internet Explorer 9 into the Xbox 360 is a significant step forward in transforming the gaming console into a more versatile entertainment hub. This move aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to make the Xbox 360 a central piece of the living room experience, offering not just gaming but also streaming services, social media, and now web browsing.
Gesture Control with Kinect
The inclusion of gesture control via Kinect is particularly noteworthy. Kinect, which was initially launched as a motion-sensing input device for gaming, has found various applications beyond gaming. With gesture control, users can navigate the web more intuitively. Imagine swiping your hand to scroll through a webpage or pinching to zoom in and out. These natural gestures can make web browsing more accessible and enjoyable, especially for those who find traditional controllers cumbersome.
Moreover, this feature could be a game-changer for accessibility. Individuals with physical disabilities who may struggle with conventional controllers could find gesture-based navigation much easier. This inclusivity could broaden the Xbox 360’s appeal to a wider audience.
Potential Impact on the Market
The addition of a web browser could also have significant implications for the market. While gaming consoles have traditionally been seen as devices primarily for gamers, this move could attract a new demographic. Families looking for an all-in-one entertainment system might find the Xbox 360 more appealing. It could also serve as a secondary web browsing device in households, reducing the need for additional tablets or laptops.
Furthermore, this development could spur competition among other gaming console manufacturers. Sony and Nintendo might feel the pressure to enhance their own consoles’ web browsing capabilities, leading to a more feature-rich environment for consumers.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the integration of Internet Explorer 9 and gesture control could pave the way for even more advanced features. Voice commands, augmented reality, and virtual reality are just a few possibilities that could be explored. As technology continues to evolve, the line between gaming consoles and other smart devices will likely blur even further.
The rumored addition of Internet Explorer 9 with Kinect gesture control to the Xbox 360 is an exciting development. It not only enhances the console’s functionality but also broadens its appeal to a more diverse audience. We eagerly await more details at E3 next month.
via Techspot
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