Yesterday we reported on the possible announcement and availability dates for Microsoft’s Xbox One Media Remote. As of today, we can confirm the previously mentioned reports and provide more information about the Media Remote itself. Wondering what the remote will be able to control and exactly when you will be able to pick it up? Check after the break for all the details you could possibly endure about a remote.
Microsoft has officially announced that the Xbox One Media Remote will become available this early March and will allow consumers to control various aspects of their entertainment consoles. The main functionality of the Xbox One Media Remote will be aimed at controlling video playback of Blu-ray movies and your favorite streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon instant Video.
It has been confirmed that the remote does contains dedicated Back and OneGuide buttons for quick access to your cable box through Xbox One’s HDMI In port. Microsoft is stating that the new Media Remote for Xbox One was “designed to help you listen, watch and switch among experiences instantly.”
In addition, the Media Remote does contain an Infrared transceiver that will allow you to control your TV and various audiovisual equipment via the remote; it provides an easy way to control aspects such as the television’s volume, power, and selected channel. We are yet to hear any official word from Microsoft on the topic of being able to control the entire Xbox UI via the remote itself.
The remote itself has been crafted with what Microsoft calls a “familiar design”, no doubt alluding to the design language of their Xbox One line of products. The surface of the remote is a soft silicone finish that we are personally hoping will help to reduce fingerprints and help to enhance grip.
Xbox One’s Media Remote will also feature basic motion sensing to understand when it has been picked up. As soon as you grab the remote off your coffee table, the keys of the remote will illuminate to help you out when watching movies in a dimly lit room.
The reported release date for the Xbox One Media Remote continues to be March 4, but Microsoft is simply stating “early March”. At that time, you will be able to pick up the remote for $24.99 in the United States and other stores around the globe.
What do you think of the Xbox One Media Remote – is the price tag sufficient?
Source: Microsoft
