Apple Thoughts: A Race Between Apple, Google and Microsoft

"Apple has taken an early lead in the race for seamless access to content, but Google and Microsoft remain close contenders, according to a new analysis. Maynard Um with UBS Investment Research issued the report as a note to investors Wednesday. After analyzing each of the key players in the race for the "Global Digital Living Room," Um views Apple as a front runner because of its "head start in media-generated content" and strong ecosystems such as the App Store."

I don't think I will ever be totally in one camp on this issue, because I like to have options in case one part of my system breaks. I have to have a backup plan! I use my current Apple TV to stream my music to the living room and for watching my videos, or to rent from the iTunes store, but I use my Xbox 360 to watch stuff from Netflix, for example. I'm not sure how Google is going to fit into this mix, and my current setup could change with the coming Airplay and new Apple TV. Until I actually get some hands-on experience, it is hard to say at this point. I definitely see Apple in the lead because of the success of their devices. How about you, do you ever see one company winning the home media war or do you see it as an ongoing battle?