7. Cross-Platform Cloud Features
In the upcoming generation, console providers are embracing the power of the cloud. For those unfamiliar with the cloud, it is a service that provides an array of computing resources (servers, storage, applications, etc) to an end user through an online client. Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft are already using it for their next-gen consoles. The Wii U as well as the upcoming PS4 and Xbox One consoles will have cloud storage in the near future. The PS4 and Xbox One will also be able to stream games through the cloud gaming services, Gaikai and Windows Azure. Valve plans to bring both features to the Steam OS -- especially the cloud gaming which will enable the Linux based OS to stream non Open GL titles to the Steam Box-- but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Thanks to the flexibility of Steam OS, all user data including file saves, achievements and preferences can be transferred across many platforms. If the user can't use the Steam Box for some reason, they can migrate to a PC and pick up from where they left off as long as their account remains active. In comparison, a Xbox One/PS4 user can only transfer his/her data to another unit while a Wii U user's data remains locked to the unit that was purchased. Thanks to a cross-platform cloud feature, the Steam Box will provide a far more flexible and reliable solution for handling user data on a console very soon.