Consistent with Microsoft's efforts to focus Xbox One on the gaming market, the Redmond-based giant said that it would putting its plan of adding DVR capabilities to its console on hold. The software giant earlier mentioned in August last year that its game console would also function as a digital video recorder.
"After careful consideration, we've decided to put development of DVR for Over-the-Air TV on hold to focus our attention on launching new, higher fan-requested gaming experiences across Xbox One and Windows 10," a Microsoft spokesperson told The Verge. "We're always listening to fan feedback and we look forward to bringing more requested experiences on Xbox One, Windows 10, and Xbox Live this year."
Last year, Microsoft announced the DVR functionality add-on with some caveats: Users are unable to record and watch videos simultaneously. As per PC world, this might have pushed the tech firm to stave off the plan as the company may have felt unable to compete with AT&T and Comcast DVRs that are technologically superior.
While such functions would clearly differentiate the console from its rival, Sony's PlayStation 4, the feature is naturally unfit for the gaming platform that offers TV shows and movies to users including video streaming apps, ARS Technica noted.
Meanwhile, Microsoft has just announced that its Cortana voice-recognition system from Windows will arrive at Xbox One soon. The company said it will enhance the integration of its Windows 10 OS and console and give Xbox One dash board a fresh makeover. The integration is part of the company's attempt to consolidate all Windows 10 and Xbox One technologies and create a better experience for console users.
The recent addition of Cortana is reflective of Microsoft's intent to expand inter-platform openness over time. As reported by Venture Beat, the software giant seeks to make Windows, the Windows app store, and UWP features open on both console and Windows devices.
