Video gaming consoles have progressed considerably since the early years of Pac-man and Pong. If it weren’t for major systems of the past, we would never have today’s highly addictive online and mobile games like Angry Birds.

Atari and Magnavox Odyssey are just two of dozens of iconic machines that paved the way for present day technology. With an evolution of over 40 years, many skeptics believe that the age of video game consoles has finally run its course, giving way to more convenient and faster modes of online and mobile games. Despite these speculations, Microsoft is expected to release the Xbox 720 sometime later this year.

New reports claim that Microsoft might actually beat Apple to the punch as rumors circulate that the new Xbox 720 will have built in voice features. Under the direction of Tim Cook, the next step for Apple television was the integration of Siri voice commands. However, a dismal 2012 4^th quarter and questionable product mix leave many to wonder if the new CEO can follow in Steve Jobs’ footsteps.

In an effort to bring game changing technology to the table and remain a contender in the gaming world, the next generation console by Microsoft will include natural language input. With Siri-style language input, Xbox users can naturally issue commands and ask questions to their TV. Now Xbox gamers don’t even have to roll out of bed because the new voice-based abilities allow you to use the “Xbox on” command to wake the system from sleep mode. Natural language input also allows you to command the Xbox to continue playing a movie right where it was left off, query what games your friends are currently playing, and receive multiplayer game suggestions. The Xbox 720 voice features are designed to evoke much better vocal responses to make for an overall experience that is much more natural.

Smart TV platforms with natural language inputs are just starting to take root. Microsoft engineers recognize the possibilities of voice processing and as such have a much bigger eye on the prize. Developers see the next generation Xbox as more than a video game console. The focus has shifted from a singular gaming device to a complete living room entertainment center.

Increasing competition with tech giants like Apple TV and Roku has forced companies like Microsoft to add value while offering more affordable devices. As a result, Microsoft has developed a product positioning that satisfies the needs of several customer segments through a slew of extra features.

In addition to Siri-like language input, the new Xbox will have a stronger online gaming network, motion detection, greatly improved graphics, a Blu-ray drive and more cross device functions. The exact specifications have yet to be released, but we can expect to hear the complete list of components in the near future.

Frank is a huge gamer, mostly sports games and shooters. He’s really looking forward to the new Grand Theft Auto coming out, hopefully sooner, rather than later. He works with One Vision TV to offer Direct TV discounts to new customers.