Subsidized Xbox 720 and the noise factor

The more we look into it the more likely that Microsoft will release the Xbox 720 during the 2013 Holiday season, but failing that then early 2014. It’s obvious that this next-gen console will be more of a media device and there’s a chance that this could help to drive the price down, as there are rumors that the next Xbox could be subsidized by cable companies.

While this does sound like a decent idea from Michael Pachter, there will be those who will be against the idea for many reasons. Let’s look into the negative reasons first; the idea of having to be tied into a contract with a cable provider in order to get an Xbox for let’s say $99 means that you will have to stick with them for a certain period of time, something that will not appeal to some consumers.

Then there’s the issue that your Xbox will always be on (until you’re in bed that is) Microsoft will need to make certain that the fans can run silent because there could be a noise factor – don’t want to be hearing a fan spinning up while trying to watch your favorite TV show.

However, there seems to be a much more positive reaction because looking into the article the thought of an Xbox that doubles as a cable TV box and allowing SmartGlass as a funky remote for your cable service will appeal to a huge number of consumers. Pachter says that Microsoft could be onto a winner even if they were able to sell an Xbox 720 to half the cable subscribers in the US and collect $5 a month for Xbox LIVE Gold.

Would you welcome a subsidized Xbox 720?