Microsoft Rolls Out Media Center Update

New update for Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 includes, among its features, the ability to stream digital content to a Xbox 360.

Microsoft today announced a software update for the Windows XP Media Center Edition 20005. Called Update Rollup 2, the chief feature of this update – which is available from Microsoft’s Windows Update site – is the ability for customers to stream digital music, videos, photos, and standard and high-definition television and movies from Media Center PCs to any television in their home via the Xbox 360 gaming system.

Using the built-in Media Center Extender technology of Xbox 360, planned for availability Nov. 22 in North America, Update Rollup 2 will connect Xbox 360 to a Media Center Edition PC, offering instant access to content available on the Media Center PC. Other enhancements in the upcoming update included integrated support for external DVD changers, an away mode to handle unattended tasks