Every year TIME Magazine takes a look at the year in review and chooses the most influential gadgets that have had an impact on our lives. This year is no different and there are plenty of consumer devices chosen, but the single gaming console that TIME gave the honor to this year is the Xbox One. Despite its origins as a gaming device, TIME awarded its fifth spot to Microsoft’s new console because of its aspirations beyond gaming.
The article mentions the Xbox One’s ability to make and receive Skype calls, its integration with cable and satellite boxes, and even the Windows 8 interface that makes the Xbox One seem more like a PC living in the living room rather than a game console exclusively. Of course, the article would be remiss if it didn’t mention Kinect also, with features like voice recognition, facial recognition, and even heart rate monitoring.
It’s nice to see TIME recognize Microsoft’s achievements with the Xbox One and especially by awarding it a high ranking spot on its top 10 gadgets list. Here’s what the rest of the list looks like, if you’re curious:
- Google Chromecast
- iPad Air and iPad Mini
- Oculus Rift Development Kit
- Pebble Smartwatch
- iPhone 5S
- Xbox One
- Kindle Fire HDX
- Nest Protect
- Leap Motion Controller
- Nokia Lumia 1020
Do you agree with the Xbox One’s inclusion on this list? Is it one of the best gadgets of the year? Let us know in the comments.
