Exactly one week after the last major Hulu/Xbox 360 rumor, there’s talk yet again that Hulu is coming to Microsoft’s game console. This time around, word is that Hulu is planning an iPad application as well, two sources tell Reuters.
The move to consumer devices like the Xbox 360 and iPad is reportedly being spurred on by Hulu’s plans to charge for expanded access to its library of content. Such a model may find some adoption among Hulu addicts who view the site on their computers. But to be truly successful, Hulu needs to find a way to get its content to televisions and other screens easily — just like Netflix’s Watch Instantly on the Xbox 360, iPad, and a variety of other devices.
Access to the Xbox 360 and iPad version of the service will likely require a subscription. The company has been quick to block methods of viewing its content on televisions via Boxee and Sony’s Playstation 3 Web browser — most likely due to pressure from its corporate overlords NBC Universal, ABC, and Fox. While it would be nice for Hulu to bring its free ad-supported content to other devices, the company’s past actions have made it clear that if users want its content on their TVs, they will likely have to pay.
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That we’re seeing Hulu/Xbox rumors so closely together now gives them even more credence — particularly since we’re just a week away from E3, a major video game industry convention. Several previous rumors speculated that Microsoft would announce the addition of Hulu at E3. Now, that seems more likely than ever. And if true, it’s yet another major feature Microsoft will be able to lord its console competitor Sony.
[Image via Engadget]
