Microsoft Xbox Turns to Windows 8 for Second Screen Interactvity
By Karla Robinson
October 25, 2012
October 25, 2012
- A new Xbox update leverages the upcoming Windows 8 operating system to provide a cohesive second screen experience between Microsoft’s popular gaming console and various mobile devices.
- With new content partnerships, the addition of an Internet Explorer browser and an app called SmartGlass, Microsoft is looking to provide a more enriched experience with its devices, which could in turn fuel sales.
- “It’s a good reason to buy a Windows tablet,” says Yusuf Mehdi, senior VP in charge of marketing and strategy for Xbox’s services. “Conversely, if you have a Windows tablet, it’s why you will want to buy an Xbox.”
- While the connectivity is only available within the Windows ecosystem, Microsoft expressed intentions to eventually connect devices that aren’t powered by Microsoft software — something that could give the company an edge over Apple, which only offers AirPlay on its mobile devices.
- SmartGlass is a “free app that users can install on devices running Microsoft’s Windows Phone 8 software and the new Windows 8 operating system that becomes available Friday. Microsoft says it allows users of such devices to remotely control the Xbox 360, surf to websites, launch videos and other content, and send them to their TVs,” notes the Wall Street Journal.
- Microsoft is also working with NBA Game Time, ESPN and UFC to offer supplementary information to mobile devices when watching sports programs.
- For those interested in the second screen experience, Microsoft has made it easier to buy an Xbox with the extension of its Xbox subscription program, which lowers upfront costs and will be available at Best Buy, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and GameStop.
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