When Microsoft boldly told the world several E3's ago that they were evolving the Xbox 360 into a full-fledged entertainment, media hub, they weren't kidding. With the rise of apps like HBO Go and UFC, one could wonder what exciting addition could be made. Well you might want to sit down for this, because today Microsoft has unveiled plans to add yet another media channel to the Xbox 360 hub: Xbox Karaoke.
According to Microsoft, the new channel, set to unleash "in time for the holidays," will feature over 8,000 playable songs from several different genres (i.e. pop, country, dance). The application will then display selected songs' lyrics onto the screen where users can then embarrass themselves with pitiful renditions of tunes like "Sister Christian" and "Just Dance." To save users from total embarrassment, their Xbox LIVE Avatars will be displayed on screen as well, performing in a "virtual band." Microsoft also confirmed that songs can be queued using SmartGlass (or through an on-screen navigation bar if you do not wish to use SmartGlass), and that players can change the key of the song or take over the background vocals of lesser-known titles.
"As the owner of the world's largest licensed karaoke library and karaoke service on TV and Internet, the Karaoke Channel will combine its expertise with the advanced capabilities of the Xbox 360 platform from Microsoft to develop the best in-home karaoke experience ever," says Eric Boyko, President and CEO of Stingray Digital Group Inc. "Now anyone can access our vast library and sing in a fun and interactive way right from their Xbox."
Microsoft did confirm, however, that only a selected number of the 8,000 songs will be available for free. The rest of the titles can be purchased for 2, 6, or 24-hour streaming blocks for an unannounced amount of Microsoft Points.
The entire premise actually sounds kind of fun, but once again we ask, we anyone really use this? We'd love to hear your thoughts on this, so leave us comment below.
Source: [PR Newswire]
