Media Center has taken its place as the dominant home media center connector in the past year or so as uptake of digital media and the XBox 360 console has taken off.  Windows Vista especially will be pushing the Media Center in new directions with new content distribution channels through Live Marketplace, and enhanced connectivity with the 360 and Zune portable media player.

Now we all know this isn't Microsoft's first attempt to break into the living room.  WebTV was a product that largely failed to bring computer and Internet functionality to the TV due to a combination of bad timing and limited functionality.  Well, with Vista, Media Center, the 360 and Zune, they're set for another try.  Now, in addition to movies and music through Media Center, you'll be able to access Windows Live.

Live TV, previously "Project Nemo" was quietly unveiled today.  This new extension for Media Center will bring a multitude of Windows Live features to your television set.  Now from your couch you'll be able to use:

• Windows Live Spaces
• Windows Live Messenger
• Windows Live Call

More details can be found at the LiveSide.net website