ForcaTech Blog

Back in February we heard that Microsoft would eventually be releasing retail stores but weren’t given any details.

Now its out that this fall we should be expecting Microsoft Retail stores near Apple stores. This initially doesn’t jump out at me as being a great idea for Microsoft. In the past Microsoft has done things suspiciously similar to Apple in an attempt to out do them–failing miserably in my opinion.

A few examples to prove my point:

On a side note however, if this fall when we see the Microsoft stores begin to pop up then I would love to see some Natal demos! That would be sure to bring plenty of people into the Microsoft stores–not that they aren’t going to walk next door to the conveniently placed Apple store right after though.

Friendly reminder we just got from Microsoft. If you are interested in getting your free–legal–version of the Windows 7 RC Build 7100 in 32-bit or 64-bit head on over to Microsofts download page to snatch it up while you still can.

Notice: Downloads will end August 20

Thanks for all your help building Windows 7. We are on our way to the last big milestone: Release to Manufacturing. Starting on October 22, you’ll see it on PCs and store shelves. As we gear up for that, it’s time to wind down the Release Candidate testing program.

If you or a friend needs a download, you’ve got time. We’ll continue to offer the RC download until August 20, 2009. After that, you won’t be able to get the download, but if you have the bits, you can still install the RC and get a key if you need one. (To get a key, just go to the Downloads page and follow the instructions.)

More information has come out about the motion sensing response to Nintendo’s Wii from Microsoft. Gates himself has let is slip that Microsoft is serious about Natal and that they may be planning to use it in more than just video games:

‘[The concept also works] for media consumption as a whole, and even if they connect it up to Windows PCs for interacting in terms of meetings, and collaboration, and communication…I think the value is as great for if you’re in the home, as you want to manage your movies, music, home system type stuff, it’s very cool there.’

Since the device is able to detect movement, distance and audio of multiple people it opens the door for all kinds of fun functionality at home and at the office. Not to mention the limitless power that Microsoft will have once they have a camera hidden in every home. You think you can use Windows illegally?!? Not now that we can see you! Now facial recognition will be required to activate Windows instead of your serial key.

On a lighter note, Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO has confirmed that we will be seeing natal next year and in the same speech said:

‘The new device will be equipped with technology that is “really, really, close” to an actuality. The console, which was described as having a “natural interface,” will have a built in camera with the ability to recognize movement and voice.’

So will we be getting a new console as well next year? We think not. After this statement Microsoft responded by saying:

‘As the Xbox team stated at E3 two weeks ago, we are not even halfway through the current console generation lifecycle and believe Xbox 360 will be the entertainment center in the home for long into the next decade. Project Natal will be an important part of this platform, but we have not confirmed a launch date at this time.’

We got to see the scripted videos from the Xbox website as well as the live footage but this was cool to see people who didn’t know the system have the ability to jump in there and play it. Given it is a little buggy now but they have until next year to work out all the kinks.

Rumors have been bouncing all around for several months about Amazon potentially acquiring Netflix. While I am sure there are some good things that would come from this I think that good would also come from them remaining separate. Competition is good.

We will update when we hear word one way or another.