Post by *NormalGamer* on Aug 11, 2005 13:48:07 GMT -5
cube.ign.com/articles/640/640983p1.html
Next-Gen WiFi Catches a Trend
Tenants clamor for home WiFi access above all. Two systems, at least, are ready.
by David Adams
August 10, 2005 - While all three console manufacturers finally agree on the importance of online gaming, Nintendo and Sony have expressed particular confidence in the growing popularity of wireless Internet connections at home: both the Revolution and PlayStation 3 should both support WiFi connectivity out of the box.
Both companies may be reading trends correctly. A recent study of commercial real estate professionals by Black's Guide reveals that tenants now name WiFi access as their number one desired amenity, above food services and health clubs.
The increasing popularity of wireless "hotspots" -- whether at a hip independent cafe or your local McDonalds -- also suggests that Americans are more and more comfortable with throwing away old Ethernet cables. That people now value home WiFi above necessities such as food and fitness suggests the next generation of consoles may offer the right connectivity at just the right time.
Microsoft, of course, is already comfortable with console connectivity -- its Xbox Live service is currently the most advanced online offering of the three competing companies. Unlike Nintendo's Revolution and Sony's PlayStation 3, however, the Xbox 360 will require an additional accessory for wireless Internet access.
It remains to be seen whether WiFi access grows hot enough to make its inclusion a significant edge for Nintendo and Sony -- or whether an unflagging Live trumps them both. One thing's certain: online gaming is ready to hit the big time.
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NG: Looks like Wi-Fi is about to become a bit popular in the next few months.
Next-Gen WiFi Catches a Trend
Tenants clamor for home WiFi access above all. Two systems, at least, are ready.
by David Adams
August 10, 2005 - While all three console manufacturers finally agree on the importance of online gaming, Nintendo and Sony have expressed particular confidence in the growing popularity of wireless Internet connections at home: both the Revolution and PlayStation 3 should both support WiFi connectivity out of the box.
Both companies may be reading trends correctly. A recent study of commercial real estate professionals by Black's Guide reveals that tenants now name WiFi access as their number one desired amenity, above food services and health clubs.
The increasing popularity of wireless "hotspots" -- whether at a hip independent cafe or your local McDonalds -- also suggests that Americans are more and more comfortable with throwing away old Ethernet cables. That people now value home WiFi above necessities such as food and fitness suggests the next generation of consoles may offer the right connectivity at just the right time.
Microsoft, of course, is already comfortable with console connectivity -- its Xbox Live service is currently the most advanced online offering of the three competing companies. Unlike Nintendo's Revolution and Sony's PlayStation 3, however, the Xbox 360 will require an additional accessory for wireless Internet access.
It remains to be seen whether WiFi access grows hot enough to make its inclusion a significant edge for Nintendo and Sony -- or whether an unflagging Live trumps them both. One thing's certain: online gaming is ready to hit the big time.
----------------------------
NG: Looks like Wi-Fi is about to become a bit popular in the next few months.
