Andre Yoskowitz
25 Nov 2009 13:00
New York state officials are preparing to use Xbox Live to broadcast emergency alerts such as natural disasters and terrorist attacks.
The New York state Emergency Management Office says they are planning to test alerts over TV, radio, the Internet and the gaming consoles in an effort to "reach younger residents who spend more time on the Xbox, PlayStation," then on traditional media outlets.
New York state deputy chief information officer Rico Singleton added (via IW): The decision was made mainly "considering the amount of time our youth spend on video games."
Additional details are scarce but Singleton did say the technology is ready and being tested.
The Xbox online service was the only one mentioned by name but it is extremely likely the alerts will be broadcast via the PlayStation 3 and Wii as well.