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Microsoft job posting hints at 'new cloud-based TV platform'

The job posting offers candidates the chance to "get in on the ground floor of an ambitious new project."

Don Reisinger
CNET contributor Don Reisinger is a technology columnist who has covered everything from HDTVs to computers to Flowbee Haircut Systems. Besides his work with CNET, Don's work has been featured in a variety of other publications including PC World and a host of Ziff-Davis publications.
Don Reisinger
2 min read
Will the Xbox play a role in a Microsoft cloud TV service?
Will the Xbox play a role in a Microsoft cloud TV service?

Does Microsoft have plans for the future of television?

The company has posted three job postings seeking engineers for its Interactive Entertainment Business that would work on a "new cloud-based TV platform." The job postings don't describe what the Cloud TV team will do, but the company entices candidates by urging them to "get in on the ground floor of an ambitious new project."

Microsoft's Careers site has been a valuable resource for Microsoft followers trying to see what the company has up its sleeve. Back in August, for example, a job posting looking for a marketing professional mentioned that the company would be launching "new versions" of its most popular products, including an Xbox. That came about a year-and-a-half after another posting hinted at an Xbox 360 successor.

However, those postings seemed more obvious. That Microsoft is working on a cloud-based television service is perhaps more a surprise to the average Microsoft follower. Could the platform be built into its new Xbox? Will Microsoft try to take on cable companies? Is Hulu or Netflix in its sights?

If Microsoft is indeed working on a cloud-based television service, it might have some company. Back in August, the Wall Street Journal reported that Apple was working on a cloud-based DVR function built into a new set-top box it was working on. Apple has so far remained tight-lipped on any such plans.

CNET has contacted Microsoft for comment on the posting. We will update this story when we have more information.

(Via The Verge)