Do Take It Personally
When Microsoft first entered the tech marketplace with their first version of Windows, who would have thought that one day they would segue into the gaming arena? No one would have guessed that the night before the launch of a Microsoft gaming device would create a trend of waiting overnight in front of gadget stores.
Let’s just say Microsoft has come a long way. Despite the infamous Mac vs. PC ad campaign led by Apple
, there are still fans of Microsoft out there—rooting and waiting for the next innovation. And lately, Xbox 360 seems to draw much of the hype.
If you think about the success of Xbox 360 and the making of a gaming product, there are a couple of key aspects that come to mind:
1. Improved Online/Cyberspace Interaction – With the original Xbox, LIVE was introduced to allow gamers to interact with other Xbox players through the Internet. With Xbox 360, users can also interact with the Xbox marketplace to download games, sample trial games, etc.
2. Personalization – Xbox 360 owners can personalize their hardware with different “skins”, which come in various colors and patterns. While this attribute is fairly simple, the capability of expression goes far in design because it connects the user to their product.
Similarly, the Microsoft Zune is another interactive entertainment product that is based on the same aspects.
1. Online Interaction – Zune owners can share their music with friends who also own a Zune. This creates an easy viral movement for new music and artists. This is the first portable music device that has created an opportunity for users to interact with their music online.
2. Personalization – Consumers can either purchase their Zune from various colors, or they can purchase a Zune online with a personalized design. In the same way as Xbox, this is an easy feature that provides significant value to users.
What’s next in store for the entertainment world? Whatever the next big thing may be, companies should focus on the importance of interactive and personalizable features.
