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Forums - Microsoft Discussion - Paul Thurott: Xbox v.Next and Always On

M.U.G.E.N on 07 April 2013

 

Microsoft has taken the unusual step of apologizing for public statements made by an employee about a feature of the next Xbox, a product that has yet to be announced. But let’s be clear: Microsoft is only apologizing for the way the message—“deal with it”—was delivered. I suspect it won’t be changing how the next Xbox works one bit.

To recap this mini-controversy, amidst swirling rumors about the next Xbox—which I’ll clarify below—Microsoft Studios Creative Director Adam Orth indirectly confirmed reports that this coming device would require an “always on” Internet connection in an admittedly bizarre series of Twitter tweets. “Sorry, I don’t get the drama around having an ‘always on’ console," he wrote. “Every device now is ‘always on.’ That's the world we live in.” Then, using a Twitter hashtag, he punctuated his point with the comment that, I think, really set people off: “Deal with it.”

Deal with it, indeed. The Internet—or at least a certain part of the Internet—reacted with outrage, despite the fact that most of the complaints were likely made over high-speed cable connections.

I was asked about this guy’s alleged meltdown on Twitter and via email a number of times. My take-aways were simple:

1) Always-on connectivity is indeed part of the next Xbox, and it was interesting to see this guy confirm that unofficially.

2) He could have been more tactful, but let’s face it, people are way too sensitive online.

3) The biggest issue here, frankly, was the cyberbullying that occurred in the wake of Orth’s comments. Those sensitive people aren’t so sensitive when it comes to other people, that’s for sure. In fact, that’s my exact definition of a bully.

And there it would have sat. I never would have written this up, because I can’t stand this sort of pseudo-outrage.

But then Microsoft issued the following statement about the episode.

“We apologize for the inappropriate comments made by an employee on Twitter yesterday. This person is not a spokesperson for Microsoft, and his personal views do not reflect the customer centric approach we take to our products or how we would communicate directly with our loyal consumers.  We are very sorry if this offended anyone, however we have not made any announcements about our product roadmap, and have no further comment on this matter.”

And now I have a fourth take-away.

4) Microsoft is only upset about the way this feature was communicated, because it likes to present this kind of thing has a positive, not a negative.

Folks, the next Xbox is going to require an always-on Internet connection. I don’t know the specifics of what that means, but as I explained on this week’s What The Tech podcast, which was recorded on Friday instead of the usual Tuesday because of my travel earlier in this week, this piece of information had been communicated to me, along with some other relevant tidbits, in January. It’s true.

http://winsupersite.com/xbox/xbox-vnext-and-always?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

my opinion on the matter is exactly what I replied to kowen with below but here it is here again

"The 'offline' bit is him speculating how it would work..and I guess would be the best case scenario if they do impliment it

We should definitely wait for a confirmation by MS themselves...don't think we will hear that at the unveiling tho. imho this would be a big big mistake. And I do think this is real..so many sources claiming the same thing and you can hardly argue someone like paul is biased and spreading fud..where's there's smoke etc. I do hope all the negative feedback has changed MS mind...fingers cossed"

 



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bananaking21 on 07 April 2013

what i dont get is why are people complaining that microsoft is silent about the subject? of course they are going to be silent about it since they didnt announce the console yet! if they go out and say "yes the next xbox does need an always online internet connection" then they pretty much announced the console and fucked up doing so



M.U.G.E.N on 07 April 2013
kowenicki said:

Here is the rest of the article that you didn't post for some reason..... 

 



Will Microsoft change this requirement in the wake of early outrage? Frankly I think we’re too far along in the development process of the next Xbox, codenamed Durango, to make such a change. More to the point, I think that an always-on Xbox is directly in keeping with Microsoft’s strategy for all next-generation platforms, including Windows Phone (all versions) and Windows 8/RT, which are designed to work as if you are simply connected all the time. Yes, they do work offline, of course. But the apps platform on these systems—which will be replicated on the Windows 8-based next Xbox—assumes a connection. Microsoft’s new platforms are integrated conduits for online services.

With bad memories of the horrible SimCity launch in our minds—that PC game also requires an Internet connection, even in “single player” mode—it’s understandable why some are nervous about this. And yes, of course we’re going to hear from the people who live in rural areas of the US, or in parts of the world where Internet connections are slow and unreliable, expensive, and metered. As we always do when any cloud-computing-type issue arises.

Deal with it. :)

Just kidding. But the knee-jerk reaction to this functionality—which, again, could certainly have been communicated a bit better—is happening before we have all the facts. Let’s see what Microsoft has to say about the next Xbox, first in a late May launch event, and then later at both E3 and BUILD 2013, before we make up our minds. Let’s not let one ill-conceived comment ruin what’s going to be an awesome year for Xbox. And yes, it really is going to be awesome.


you seem to imply I didn't post the whole article for a specific reason w/e that reason might be in your paranoid mind. I didn't post the whole thing because I thought we are not supposed to post complete articles like than on here. Link is there for a reason

The 'offline' bit is him speculating how it would work..and I guess would be the best case scenario if they do impliment it

We should definitely wait for a confirmation by MS themselves...don't think we will hear that at the unveiling tho. imho this would be a big big mistake. And I do think this is real..so many sources claiming the same thing and you can hardly argue someone like paul is biased and spreading fud..where's there's smoke etc. I do hope all the negative feedback has changed MS mind...fingers cossed



In-Kat-We-Trust Brigade!

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DirtyP2002 on 07 April 2013
M.U.G.E.N said:
kowenicki said:

Here is the rest of the article that you didn't post for some reason..... 

 



Will Microsoft change this requirement in the wake of early outrage? Frankly I think we’re too far along in the development process of the next Xbox, codenamed Durango, to make such a change. More to the point, I think that an always-on Xbox is directly in keeping with Microsoft’s strategy for all next-generation platforms, including Windows Phone (all versions) and Windows 8/RT, which are designed to work as if you are simply connected all the time. Yes, they do work offline, of course. But the apps platform on these systems—which will be replicated on the Windows 8-based next Xbox—assumes a connection. Microsoft’s new platforms are integrated conduits for online services.

With bad memories of the horrible SimCity launch in our minds—that PC game also requires an Internet connection, even in “single player” mode—it’s understandable why some are nervous about this. And yes, of course we’re going to hear from the people who live in rural areas of the US, or in parts of the world where Internet connections are slow and unreliable, expensive, and metered. As we always do when any cloud-computing-type issue arises.

Deal with it. :)

Just kidding. But the knee-jerk reaction to this functionality—which, again, could certainly have been communicated a bit better—is happening before we have all the facts. Let’s see what Microsoft has to say about the next Xbox, first in a late May launch event, and then later at both E3 and BUILD 2013, before we make up our minds. Let’s not let one ill-conceived comment ruin what’s going to be an awesome year for Xbox. And yes, it really is going to be awesome.


you seem to imply I didn't post the whole article for a specific reason w/e that reason might be in your paranoid mind. I didn't post the whole thing because I thought we are not supposed to post complete articles like than on here. Link is there for a reason

The 'offline' bit is him speculating how it would work..and I guess would be the best case scenario if they do impliment it

We should definitely wait for a confirmation by MS themselves...don't think we will hear that at the unveiling tho. imho this would be a big big mistake. And I do think this is real..so many sources claiming the same thing and you can hardly argue someone like paul is biased and spreading fud..where's there's smoke etc. I do hope all the negative feedback has changed MS mind...fingers cossed


hahahahaha MUGEN got busted and tries to find his way out. Good stuff.



Imagine not having GamePass on your console...

M.U.G.E.N on 07 April 2013
kowenicki said:
M.U.G.E.N said:
kowenicki said:

Here is the rest of the article that you didn't post for some reason..... 

 



Will Microsoft change this requirement in the wake of early outrage? Frankly I think we’re too far along in the development process of the next Xbox, codenamed Durango, to make such a change. More to the point, I think that an always-on Xbox is directly in keeping with Microsoft’s strategy for all next-generation platforms, including Windows Phone (all versions) and Windows 8/RT, which are designed to work as if you are simply connected all the time. Yes, they do work offline, of course. But the apps platform on these systems—which will be replicated on the Windows 8-based next Xbox—assumes a connection. Microsoft’s new platforms are integrated conduits for online services.

With bad memories of the horrible SimCity launch in our minds—that PC game also requires an Internet connection, even in “single player” mode—it’s understandable why some are nervous about this. And yes, of course we’re going to hear from the people who live in rural areas of the US, or in parts of the world where Internet connections are slow and unreliable, expensive, and metered. As we always do when any cloud-computing-type issue arises.

Deal with it. :)

Just kidding. But the knee-jerk reaction to this functionality—which, again, could certainly have been communicated a bit better—is happening before we have all the facts. Let’s see what Microsoft has to say about the next Xbox, first in a late May launch event, and then later at both E3 and BUILD 2013, before we make up our minds. Let’s not let one ill-conceived comment ruin what’s going to be an awesome year for Xbox. And yes, it really is going to be awesome.


you seem to imply I didn't post the whole article for a specific reason w/e that reason might be in your paranoid mind. I didn't post the whole thing because I thought we are not supposed to post complete articles like than on here. Link is there for a reason

The 'offline' bit is him speculating how it would work..and I guess would be the best case scenario if they do impliment it

We should definitely wait for a confirmation by MS themselves...don't think we will hear that at the unveiling tho. imho this would be a big big mistake. And I do think this is real..so many sources claiming the same thing and you can hardly argue someone like paul is biased and spreading fud..where's there's smoke etc. I do hope all the negative feedback has changed MS mind...fingers cossed

Excuse me?

i just that it's important to post the conclusion that the article writer comes to, kinda crucial.  Call me old fashioned, but don't call me paranoid.  Reported. 


sensitive much? When you assume there's a reason when there clearely isn't makes you paranoid...lol it's hilarious you of all people are so sensitive hahaha as that ms exec said #dealwithit

and what conclusion? That he thinks we should wait for confirmation? No that is not the most important part of this article..it's the part where he heard the same news regarding always online. Him speculating away is secondary...this is not a game review or a DF article where the 'conclusion' is the most important

So bottom line..get over it. 



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M.U.G.E.N on 07 April 2013
DirtyP2002 said:


hahahahaha MUGEN got busted and tries to find his way out. Good stuff.

busted for what exactly? 

I swear lol someone of you are hilarious. I know these articles are kind of hard to swollow for some of ya but seriously



In-Kat-We-Trust Brigade!

"This world is Merciless, and it's also very beautiful"

For All News/Info related to the PlayStation Vita, Come and join us in the Official PSV Thread!

M.U.G.E.N on 07 April 2013
trasharmdsister12 said:
M.U.G.E.N said:

I didn't post the whole thing because I thought we are not supposed to post complete articles like than on here. Link is there for a reason

Just to clarify the rule in question:

  • Do not post just a link. Links have context - expound upon that context. For example, Mario Piano Videos. Post a link, but also give some background on what the link is to. Try to avoid simply copy and pasting the article to which you are linking.

The part that applies here is "Try to avoid simply copy and pasting the article to which you are linking". What this means is try to add your own opinion on the content of the article you're posting. It adds context to what you feel is important to highlight in the article. It doesn't mean "Don't post the entire article", but rather "Don't JUST post the entire article". Add your own take on the article and why you're posting it and what you felt was discussion worthy about it.

Hope that helps clear things up for future threads.


I kid you not I was warned for posting an enitre article here before :S Either way I believe the OP has the most important bits of information of the article and there really isn't much I can add context wise. 



In-Kat-We-Trust Brigade!

"This world is Merciless, and it's also very beautiful"

For All News/Info related to the PlayStation Vita, Come and join us in the Official PSV Thread!

M.U.G.E.N on 07 April 2013
kowenicki said:
trasharmdsister12 said:
M.U.G.E.N said:

I didn't post the whole thing because I thought we are not supposed to post complete articles like than on here. Link is there for a reason

Just to clarify the rule in question:

  • Do not post just a link. Links have context - expound upon that context. For example, Mario Piano Videos. Post a link, but also give some background on what the link is to. Try to avoid simply copy and pasting the article to which you are linking.

The part that applies here is "Try to avoid simply copy and pasting the article to which you are linking". What this means is try to add your own opinion on the content of the article you're posting. It adds context to what you feel is important to highlight in the article. It doesn't mean "Don't post the entire article", but rather "Don't JUST post the entire article". Add your own take on the article and why you're posting it and what you felt was discussion worthy about it.

Hope that helps clear things up for future threads.

I was banned for saying someone was sensitive the other day.

He has called me paranoid and sensitive in two separate posts here.. Can you explain that one too. 

you are sure proving me wrong



In-Kat-We-Trust Brigade!

"This world is Merciless, and it's also very beautiful"

For All News/Info related to the PlayStation Vita, Come and join us in the Official PSV Thread!

Somini on 07 April 2013
kowenicki said:
M.U.G.E.N said:
kowenicki said:

Here is the rest of the article that you didn't post for some reason..... 

 



Will Microsoft change this requirement in the wake of early outrage? Frankly I think we’re too far along in the development process of the next Xbox, codenamed Durango, to make such a change. More to the point, I think that an always-on Xbox is directly in keeping with Microsoft’s strategy for all next-generation platforms, including Windows Phone (all versions) and Windows 8/RT, which are designed to work as if you are simply connected all the time. Yes, they do work offline, of course. But the apps platform on these systems—which will be replicated on the Windows 8-based next Xbox—assumes a connection. Microsoft’s new platforms are integrated conduits for online services.

With bad memories of the horrible SimCity launch in our minds—that PC game also requires an Internet connection, even in “single player” mode—it’s understandable why some are nervous about this. And yes, of course we’re going to hear from the people who live in rural areas of the US, or in parts of the world where Internet connections are slow and unreliable, expensive, and metered. As we always do when any cloud-computing-type issue arises.

Deal with it. :)

Just kidding. But the knee-jerk reaction to this functionality—which, again, could certainly have been communicated a bit better—is happening before we have all the facts. Let’s see what Microsoft has to say about the next Xbox, first in a late May launch event, and then later at both E3 and BUILD 2013, before we make up our minds. Let’s not let one ill-conceived comment ruin what’s going to be an awesome year for Xbox. And yes, it really is going to be awesome.


you seem to imply I didn't post the whole article for a specific reason w/e that reason might be in your paranoid mind. I didn't post the whole thing because I thought we are not supposed to post complete articles like than on here. Link is there for a reason

The 'offline' bit is him speculating how it would work..and I guess would be the best case scenario if they do impliment it

We should definitely wait for a confirmation by MS themselves...don't think we will hear that at the unveiling tho. imho this would be a big big mistake. And I do think this is real..so many sources claiming the same thing and you can hardly argue someone like paul is biased and spreading fud..where's there's smoke etc. I do hope all the negative feedback has changed MS mind...fingers cossed

Excuse me?

i just that it's important to post the conclusion that the article writer comes to, kinda crucial.  Call me old fashioned, but don't call me paranoid.  Reported. 

lol you reported someone for calling you paranoid!? Your oversensitivity is getting out of hand.

This always on business is worrying, if they implement it and get away with it, Sony and or Nintendo could consider doing the same with their future consoles.



M.U.G.E.N on 07 April 2013
kowenicki said:


No, the most important part is later.  I noticed it the other day and he reders to it too.  The windows tablet is advertised as "always onI" It doesn't need to be on to work however.


well I disagree. I think the fact the a prominent figure in the MS community said he heard the same news as other sources + his opinion on the twitter drama is more important than how he think it 'might' be implimented

guess we will agree to disagree



In-Kat-We-Trust Brigade!

"This world is Merciless, and it's also very beautiful"

For All News/Info related to the PlayStation Vita, Come and join us in the Official PSV Thread!