This week Microsoft made the announcement of the very impressive Xbox SmartGlass at E3 in Los Angeles, which is a new Windows Phone and Windows 8 Metro style app that will enable people to seamlessly interact and control games and videos on the Xbox 360.
SmartGlass was built around to what the software giant calls “activities”, that includes anything from directory’s commentary to maps that are interactive. Moreover you will be able to view information, such as TV show or movie’s cast and creators, all in real-time while watching a particular episode or that blockbuster film. Microsoft hopes to bring all this additional data from Blu-rays, DVDs, websites, and apps.
SmartGlass also expands games functionality. For example, you can use a Windows 8 tablet or a Windows Phone as a secondary controller.
The new “platform” as Microsoft refers to, will be available for Windows 8 PCs, Windows Phone along with iOS and Android devices, which is a big plus, because not too many people are yet using a Lumia or other type of Windows Phone.
The app will be released sometime before the end of the year, which should be more than enough time to bring more partners and expand functionality and information.
In the following video from The Verge, you’ll see a hands-on demo of the platform and functionality up to this moment that covers three areas: Gaming, video, and Internet Explorer 10. And the second video is from Microsoft SmartGlass presentation at E3 (2012) demoing the new company newest piece of technology. 20 minutes worth watching!
Microsoft SmartGlass hands-on
Xbox SmartGlass and Internet Explorer for Xbox – E3 2012
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].