Sony’s American PR chief Dave Karraker needs to do a better job of creating negative spin about Microsoft’s plan to offer HD movie downloads starting Nov. 22.Karraker has been quoted as saying, "I think they are doing a disservice to their consumer base because they are ignoring all those people who bought the Core system."
At the heart of Karraker’s argument is the fact the new HD movie and TV download service coming to Xbox Live Marketplace will only be available for Xbox 360 users with a hard drive. It’s true enough that the move will cut out those who have only purchased a core system for about $299. The thing is, the hard drive only costs about $99 to add on.
Once again showing Sony’s inability to do math, Karraker doesn’t seem to realize the two Xbox 360 numbers still add up to less than a $499 PS3 model.
It’s my guess Sony’s kicking itself for not coming up with the idea first.
With this move, Microsoft has actually leveled the playing field for people to get a high-def experience affordably. Rather than have to buy an expensive Blu-ray or HD-DVD player, Xbox 360 owners can pop in a $99 hard drive, buy a download and start watching.
Downloads are the wave of the future and it looks like Microsoft has decided to ride that wave, even possibly at the expense of its HD-DVD player. In essence, Microsoft has made high-def more accessible. It hasn’t segregated – it’s opened doors.
Sony hasn’t, but you can be its officials are scrambling to come up with a similar offer.
Related:
Xbox 360 Movie, TV Downloads Confirmed
Blu-Ray, HD-DVD Could Both Lose
The Blu-ray Debacle
Sony Australia Not Good With Numbers
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