Developers get to touch Microsoft's SmartGlass
Xbox mobilised
Microsoft has released a software development kit (SDK) to encourage coding for its upcoming SmartGlass application, which lets mobile devices interact with the Xbox 360 console "in an intelligent way".
The Redmond firm has pushed the free SDK to partners with agreements to build Xbox games or entertainment apps, so they can support the app ahead of its official launch later this year.
Revealed at E3 2012, SmartGlass allows a phone or tablet to be used as a second screen to show enhanced information about a game, to control the dashboard, or pull content back and forth between devices.
While Nintendo gears up for its tablet-console crossover, the Wii U, which Sony promises to better with a PlayStation 3-to-Vita link up, Microsoft's SmartGlass promises to do the same with everyday mobiles rather than dedicated gaming hardware. ®
COMMENTS
Re: "which lets mobile devices interact with the Xbox 360 console "in an intelligent way".
<brandishes sword>
Back under yer bridge ya varmint!
</brandishes sword>
All mobiles, or just WP7 / 8?
I might have blind, but I didn't see that in the article
Re: "which lets mobile devices interact with the Xbox 360 console "in an intelligent way".
Shut up, Barry.
.err..
..why do I want to interact with my console using a touch screen in my hands? I have a mahossiff HD screen for the game or movies, played mainly in a dark cinema room, why do I want to be fiddling about with a titchy hand-held screen?
Maybe Microsoft has it right - release an app for people who feel the need to have that connectivity. I've got the "bluPlay" app for BluRay playback on my PS3 and I never use it. Glad it was free :)
