The Xbox One has been Microsoft’s entertainment focused device from day one, even though they have back peddled to focus on core gaming. Entertainment and content today comes from apps and the Xbox One has been slowly adding more and more as time goes on. Now ABC News has been the first US based news app on Xbox One and it has launched today! Xbox One users can now get live video streams, on demand content, and other video content with the new app. The app puts the user in control, and adds content not only from ABC News editions, but from local affiliates and ABC partners:
- User is in Control: With the Snap feature users can split the screen to view ABC News live streams or top stories coverage on one side while simultaneously playing a game, watching live television, or video chatting on Skype on the other side. Users can access up to five simultaneous live streams, including ABC News’ 24/7 digital channel. In addition, the app “squeezes back” between clips, inviting users to change course by rearranging the playlists, saving clips for later or jumping into another section.
- Added Content: Partnerships with Marvel and Fusion bring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews from ABC-Disney partners. ABC will also premier a recurring digital news update series that will expand the use of modern digital storytelling for the Xbox audience. In addition to its extensive national and international coverage, the app includes clips from ABC Owned Television affiliates including WABC in New York, KABC in Los Angeles, WLS in Chicago, WPVI in Philadelphia, KGO in San Francisco, KTRK in Houston, WTVD in Raleigh and KFSN in Fresno.
- Morning, Evening & Weekend Editions: A curated playlist of videos begins playing as soon as the app starts with a continuous playback. Editors update content regularly throughout the day, delivering quick digests in the morning, more immersive content in the evenings and topic-themed packages to catch up on the weekends. Each edition can be adjusted for advertising sponsorships or major news events.
So often TVs are used to consume news and now Xbox users have access to a classic source of US news without switching to cable. This app showcases how the Xbox One spans the gap between old and new sources of content such as news and video. Traditionally ABC has been viewed via cable and Xbox One users have access to live TV through HDMI pass through and the OneGuide. Now as more companies develop for Xbox One the platform can transition to app based content and services. Users benefit from access to legacy sources of information as well as modern apps and content.
