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MS Seeks Entrance Fee to XBox Accessory Market

Posted by timothy on from the hey-they-build-the-playground dept.

pwnage writes "According to CNET, Microsoft's newest licensing model for the next-generation XBox will effectively lock out 3rd-party accessory manufacturers who don't enroll in Microsoft's licensing and royalty program. The new console will employ hardware security mechanisms to ensure that only products created by developers willing to fork over cash to Microsoft can connect to and work with the console. Is Microsoft shooting itself in the foot by making traditional 'approved product' licensing mandatory for 3rd-party developers? Or will companies line up by the dozens to tithe to King Bill? Finally, will Sony follow a similar strategy to eke additional revenues out of its PlayStation 3?"

2 of 385 comments (clear)

  1. Nintendo had something similar by The+Hobo · · Score: 5, Informative

    The NES "lockout chip"

    Patent 1

    Patent 2
    Disabling the chip

    --
    There is another kind of evil which we must fear most, and that is the indifference of good men. -- Boondock Saints
  2. Given Sony's History... by pr0t0 · · Score: 5, Informative

    After paying $50+ for the Everquest2 game, then $15 a month for the privelege of actually using the game, then finding out that Sony wanted a piece of the action on items sold in Station Exchange auctions...I got an idea of how Sony treats its customers. I'm sure they are elated that MS took this step, now they can treat 3rd party vendors the same way.

    Am I bitter? Oh, a tad.

    I've since moved to Guildwars. It's possibly the best RPG game I've ever played.

    --
    I'm sorry, but your opinion seems to be wrong.