http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/05/5-9-2013apple-tv-replacement.jpg Rumors have been circulating for some time that Microsoft is prepping a streaming media box. The Xbox may have many of the same functions, but it’s still primarily a gaming console. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that there are prototypes of a simpler, cheaper set-top device designed exclusively for consuming media floating around Redmond. Obviously this would provide a cheaper path to consumer’s living rooms, but it could also offer a way to keep the Xbox brand separate and primarily gaming focused. On, the other hand, if a Roku competitor with Xbox b*****ng were to hit shelves for $99, it would further broaden the scope of Microsoft’s entertainment division. The latter wouldn’t be terribly surprising, since some of the prototypes are reportedly designed to work with Kinect. Whether or not these devices will ever see the light of day is still anyone’s guess, but it could provide a cheap way to get that Heroes](http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/17/microsoft-heroes-revived-for-msn-xbox/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget) reboot into people’s living rooms.
Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD, Microsoft
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Source: Wall Street Journal