Microsoft Corp took another step in the direction of its objective of rotating the Xbox into the nexus of household amusement, launching software to allow users view additional content, manage games and surf the web from their tabs as well as smartphones.
The software manufacturer revealed a “SmartGlass” app on June 04, which connects the console to cellular phones catered by Windows or Apple Inc’s iOS and Google Inc’s Android.
The US software company has been making attempts for years to create a living-room entertainment center of its Xbox that has marketed 67 million units since it hit markets in the year 2005.
Currently, Microsoft Corp is trying to swell the Xbox’s entertainment list and link it up to “companion” cellular devices as a mode to improve sales of its 7-year old console.
On Monday, it also declared web browsing will be made accessible on Xboxes, comprising via voice identification in a nod to the well-known Siri task on the latest iPhones.
And it discussed to market cloud-based music a la Apple’s iTunes or Amazon.com Inc.
Wedbush Securities’ Michael Pachter viewed “SmartGlass” as a pleasant trait — particularly how it reversed devices into TV remotes — but appended it wasn’t clear how vital it will become.
“With an open browser, it’s like you have a smart TV on an Xbox, which could mean you don’t go out and buy a connected TV if you already have an Xbox at home,” Michael Pachter added.
