Since Microsoft makes both the Xbox 360 and the IPTV middleware, Mediaroom, that powers AT&T’s IPTV offering, U-verse TV, it was only a matter of time before the Xbox played a dual role of game console and STB. That time apparently is Nov 7th.
That’s the date that the Xbox will officially become STB capable for AT&T U-verse TV subscribers, according to Engadget (by way of DSL Reports). U-verse subscribers will need at least one regular U-verse DVR set-top-box in the home for the Xbox STB feature to work.
The feature adds some value to the popular game console and further catapults into the role of an entertainment gateway, versus just a game console. I suspect we’ll see even more development for the Xbox, Mediaroom, and the integration of the two, as Mediaroom powered video service providers pressure Microsoft to add value to their IPTV operating system to fend off competition from the likes of Google TV and Apple TV.
