8-BIT JAY: Register to vote on your Xbox
Xbox360 owners who connect to the Xbox LIVE Network may notice a new icon on their dashboard. Rock the Vote has partnered with the Microsoft Corporation to make the Xbox360 the very first "platform for change." Microsoft wants their gamers to be involved in the elections, and they have just the plan to get their to the ballots. Now gamers will have an easier time than ever to speak up from the comfort of their videogame system's online network.
This partnership is the first of its kind, and will allow Xbox360 owners to register to vote from their system, participate in presidential polls, discuss the elections in online forums, download public service announcements and speak their thoughts on the presidential candidates with other members of the LIVE network. It all began last week, Aug. 25, the first day of the Democratic National Convention, and will continue throughout the rest of the election process.
Xbox is spending time at both conventions promoting their partnership with Rock the Vote, and educating delegates about using the Xbox360's Family Settings, to create a safer playing environment for their children by restricting access to games and movies and limit their activity and communications on the LIVE network. This may help raise some awareness in DC that the industry is self-regulating and can continue without having elected officials breathing down its back.
Microsoft says that Xbox LIVE is the biggest online network for a video game console, with a membership that totals at 12 million. If Xbox LIVE were a state, it would be the country's seventh largest, with a total of about 20 electoral votes.
The partners hope to target young Americans between the ages of 18 and 30. As executive director of Rock the Vote, Heather Smith, puts it, "Xbox is a natural partner to help us reach out to youth voters," and, "To realize our goal of registering 2 million young Americans by this fall, we need to go where young Americans are, and there's no doubt in our minds that many are on Xbox 360 and Xbox Live."
Marc Whitten, general manager of Xbox LIVE explains that the, "LIVE community is active, vocal and passionate," and that they are, "thrilled to partner with Rock the Vote to make it easier than ever for youth voters - and our members - to register and be heard."
It is now easier than it has ever been for gamers to register and discuss their opinions with others. Be heard, and learn what others have to say. Most importantly, get out there and make a difference.
