Microsoft made quite a few missteps leading up to the release of the Xbox One. A console that should have had a lot of fanfare leading into the November launch, saw its fanbase turn on it due to unpopular features, and had unfortunate miscalculations in marketing the new hardware. These mistakes ultimately led Microsoft to change their message to consumers, to hopefully regain some favor for the Xbox One. While this process is ongoing for the company, Ed Fries believes that Microsoft is still in a pretty good position, because of the quality of Xbox Live and the Windows software running on the Xbox One.
Xbox Live is still the best
“Microsoft has always been ahead in system software as well,” Fries tells CNET. “Xbox Live is still the best and the new system is even better than before.”
While Sony and Nintendo have made great strides in their online networks and operating systems, the Xbox One was praised by critics at launch as the best of the bunch when it comes to user experience. An aspect of the console that has also seen it’s fair share of improvements and updates since launch.
As for Xbox Live, it’s been a reliable, albeit pricey service for over a decade. While Fries believes that it’s “still the best”, Microsoft certainly has a fight on their hands in this regard as well. Sony’s PlayStation Network has seen vast improvements in the transition from the PlayStation 3 to the PlayStation 4. The premium aspect of the network allows subscribers to access online features, much like Xbox Live, but also offers a number of complimentary games with the subscription.
