Windows Live Messenger for Xbox 360

Microsoft announced on Monday that the well known Windows Live Messenger software will be made available for Instant Messaging on the Xbox 360. Users may IM with up to 6 other users, including PCs and other Smart Devices. The update will be available through the Spring Update 2007, releasing on May 7th.

In Sri Lanka - I've managed to sign up for Xbox Live from Sri Lanka through the Singapore service. Just connected up to my router and sgined up. Could have done better with a USB keyboard though. Users in Sri Lanka can do so and enjoy the same experience other Xbox users are enjoying around the world.

Xbox 360 Elite

Microsoft, on March 28th 2007, announced the new, long awaited Xbox 360 Elite edition. It contains a 120 GB Hard Drive and a HDMI port for full HD functionality, as well as a better cooling system.. But these will later be incorporated to the Xbox Premium system. The main selling point here is the fully Black colour system cover of the 360 Elite. This is unique, as the entire body, not only the faceplate, is black. The system will be available from April 29th onwards in limited numbers, priced at US$479.99. Bit too expensive. Maybe, maybe not. At least the cooling system is useful, because by 360 is going to fry up one of these days.

But unfortunately the new Elite does not have support for some other features that customer awaited, such as Streaming IPTV and a cooler (temperature-wise), cheaper 65nm processor. These features will probably be made available later this year, or even next year.

Yet, the Xbox 360 Elite is still US$20 cheaper than the basic Playstation 3, and $120 cheaper than the premium PS3 at the moment. Therefore I recommend that customers who want an all-round entertainment experience should buy the Xbox 360 instead of the PS3. I say so because Xbox 360 currently has some features yet to be released by Sony for the PS3, and also has some good features coming up soon. Otherwise people can wait for the PS3 price to go down.

In Sri Lanka - Oh, didn't I mention that Xbox 360 Elite will only be available in USA. Thats bad. But on the bright side, shops like Galaxy and Nastars are likely to get hold of two or three systems from somewhere. Of course they will be twice the price in Sri Lanka. I prefer buying from Singapore or Dubai, but in this case there is no choice.

Xbox 360 TV

Microsoft's Xbox 360 is offering (or is going to offer) Television to its users in Xbox Live areas in two methods.

1. Download Television Shows and Movies


2. IPTV (Internet Streaming Television)
   

Download TV Shows and Movies

Xbox Live already provides this service for registered users. Users first purchase Xbox points from Xbox Live. Then they use the points to purchase a TV Show or Movie. Quite similar to iTunes Online Store. The videos may be downloaded in the background while playing a game or doing something else (using the 2006 update).

IPTV

This was first a rumour, but now is confirmed by Microsoft. Microsoft will be offering streaming television through Xbox Live. This service will launch in the 2007 holiday season or later. Channels available will most likely be those which already use Microsoft TV IPTV Edition to distribute their channels. Features of this service will include recording tv shows in the background whilst playing a game, as well as a guide which sorts out channels according to your taste. The price and system requirements (larger HDD, etc.) of this service are yet to be announced. See IPTV on Xbox 360 is for Real.

Unfortunately, Xbox Live is currently not available in Sri Lanka. The closest country with Xbox Live services is Singapore. But knowing that Microsoft is eager to get a piece of the South Asian market, Xbox Live can be expected in Sri Lanka and neighbouring countries quite soon.
Edit: Sorry, wrong information. Xbox Live can be accessed in Sri Lanka thorugh the Singapore service or the service of any other country. ONly thign is that you have to enter false information about you living in the country of the service.