Xbox Goes Mobile

Microsoft's Unveils Smart Glass

Today, Microsoft Corp. announced that they will begin offering music via their Xbox gaming console helping them become "the nexus of household entertainment" says Fox Business.  Microsoft is going to offer 30 million tracks via its new music service.  It is rumored that Microsoft is essentially killing off its own Zune service offered to its mobile users. Customers are already able to stream Netflix, ESPN, and limited other channels as long as they are an Xbox Live subscriber.  But now with Microsoft's new software, subscribers are going to be able to play games, surf the net, and gain access to extra content through their smartphones and tablets.



Microsoft introduced their new product called "Smart Glass" today that links mobile devices to the Xbox gaming console powered by Windows or Apple iOS and Google Android. The software allows owners of an Xbox to essentially pair their smartphone or tablet to their TV making it an interactive remote.  Just like the iPhone and other smartphones, you will be able to swipe, tap, and zoom in and out in a pinch.   If you didn't have a Smart TV before, maybe after the introduction of Microsoft's new "Smart Glass" software, you won't need to rush out and make that big purchase. Microsoft is also going to offer voice recognition software.  This idea is rumored to be in response to Siri, the popular iPhone voice recognition software. Fox Business reports that Microsoft has sold 67 million units since it launched in 2005 and has been trying to make a presence in the home entertainment sector.

Microsoft was a little tight-lipped about their new product offerings, but they did offer up a short demo.

What do you think this means for Microsoft and Xbox?  Let us know in the comments.