Using your games console

The Microsoft Xbox 360 can perform the functions of a media player although its prime function is as a gaming console. It will be able to download films and other content from the Xbox Live Marketplace, which currently concentrates on games in the UK. US members can already download films, including those from Walt Disney Pictures and Touchstone Pictures.

Wireless networking is now built-in for both the 4GB and the 250GB models. A wireless Networking Adapter can be bought for older models.  A hard drive for saving media content is included in the 250GB, but not in the less expensive 4GB. All models now have HDMI digital video output but an HD cable is an optional extra for the 4GB.

Prices from Microsoft: £149.99 for the 4GB, £199.99 for the 250GB.