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| Originally Posted by Pretty Flowers I wasn't aware that Microsoft had brought out a PVR either. If you decide on this and have Sky at home, they might well not be compatable with each other... |
Microsoft haven't brought out a PVR themselves but provide an OEM licence for Windows MCE and are actively working with OEMs to produce units (there are about 30ish available in the Uk at the moment). The units tend to provide digital or analogue TV (including recording, pausing live TV, program guide, etc), DVD playing facilities, access to music files (MP3, WMA, etc), access to digital photos and home videos, pay per view services, Windows Messenger and other services. The units also come with hardware to allow them to integrate with other set top units from people such as Sky, cable, etc. In addition, its this "everything in one" server which syncs with the new PMPs so you can access your media when out and about.
I've recently built my own Microsoft based PVR and its very impressive (it makes products such as MythTV look very poor in comparison). I'm not a huge fan of Microsoft products but this is a very slick product and I can see it making its way in to homes across the world in a big way. The only real contender I can see at the moment is the Sony PS3 but thats not due out yet so is loosing ground already. Hopefully it will be compatible with the Microsoft one or another "VHS vs Betamax" battle could be looming....