190°

Introducing Microsoft's SmartGlass

With the official release of the new Xbox 360 dashboard, we step closer to an additional feature that was announced at this year’s E3 press conference: Xbox SmartGlass. You know all your smart devices that you play around with while you are in a Call of Duty lobby or while watching the latest episode of Mad Men on Netflix? Well now you can integrate them into a new entertainment experience giving consumers the chance to breach traditional one screen form of entertainment into multiple screens. And I’m not talking about the 3DS.

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original-gamer.com
MultiConsoleGamer4209d ago

For browsing media content it's a great product.

For gaming it has no practical use that isn't distracting from the central gameplay experience.

andibandit4209d ago (Edited 4209d ago )

I mostly agree with you, though i can see some minor potential uses for it:

1. have it display whatever message you just received....saves me the hassle of pressing guide button etc etc.

2. use it as a keyboard, for those of us who dont want to have a keyboard connnected to the xbox.

3. as a touchpad while surfing.

4. Minimap, instead of having a minimap take up space on the screen. altho for games like COD where taking your eyes away for a nano second means death, it's less useful

5. as a map instead of having to press back/start constantly to figure out which road to take(Borderlands 2 anyone?)

6. watching a movie with someone, you dont have to pause it for 3 minutes because youre going in the kitchen to make popcorn.(watching the movie in parallel)

7. inventory management in any sort of RPG, coming from M/K and to using a gamepad has been a total backwards step, maybe smartglass could be used.

and so on, nothing breathtaking, just makes things easier.

MikeMyers4209d ago

1. I like it
2. this is true as the controller is very clunky to use for text
3. That could be distracting while playing
4. Kind of like the DS and its dual screens. Could have lots of potential.
5. You risk the distraction while playing and having to constantly look at both screens.
6. Those Google Glasses would do a much better job. I can't imagine having my buttery hands all over my tablet while making popcorn so I don't have to pause it for guests.
7. Yes, sort of like the other resources like mini-maps.

How about the ability to have some sort of reference available at all times. I know many like walkthroughs and now you don't have to go searching to figure out what to do. There are lots of applications that could make gaming more interesting and more involving. They just have to do it in a way that makes sense.

greenpowerz4209d ago (Edited 4209d ago )

You don't know what it holds for gaming(loading XBLA games etc on mobile devices from Windows or xbox plus games like watch dogs)

I really wish your name was reflective of your post history.

Lots of Sony fans in here ;)

Are you going to try smartglass on your xbox? ;)

Burning_Finger4209d ago

Microsoft needs a person that's good at naming product.

Window
Xbox
Smart Glass
Kinect

XD

GribbleGrunger4209d ago

I think that SmartGlass is a great name actually.

konnerbllb4209d ago

Yeah it fits it well. Can someone think of a better name without trolling?

slapedurmomsace4209d ago

@konner...I tried...I failed.

The Meerkat4209d ago

konnerbllb

I quite like the sound of FingerTip

DBergmark4209d ago

Windows is actually a great name because the Microsoft OS was like a Window to a new world. Kinect is a mix between the two words kinetic & connect. Kinetic is moving energy which connect would you with your gaming console; cheesy but logical. SmartGlass: smartphones & tablets. I don't know why they went with glass but it makes sense either way. Xbox doesn't really make sense.

Fez4209d ago

Xbox was named for it's use of DirectX. Pretty good name, nice and short too.

etowntwo4209d ago

Yeah, like WiiU and Vita are supposed to be any better?

nukeitall4209d ago

Actually I think all those names are pretty good. Perhaps you can suggest something better?

humbleopinion4209d ago

I heard the initially wanted to come up with the name "burning finger", but realized it was taken.

+ Show (3) more repliesLast reply 4209d ago
mickaelmc4209d ago

wow. while Microsoft is wasting our time with this crap, Sony is busy making exclusive triple A titles. Glad I sold my 360 back when there was a perceived value for it. Microsoft is already showing obvious signs of neglecting 360 gamers so they can sell us a new console next year. Even xbox fanboys have to admit this.

bodybombs4209d ago (Edited 4209d ago )

my lord you make it seem like they dedicate every single person on staff to one project at a time.

god forbid ms make something innovative. i for one am welcoming smartglass.

Since you seem so uninterested in the product and are happy to have sold it, why comment. go back to your bridge troll. you're not welcome here

also, if they were neglecting anybody what would be the point in putting halo 4 out, and developing OS updates for the console.

mickaelmc4209d ago

I was interested in the product. My roommate still has a 360. He likes it. Neither of us are too excited for Halo 4. lol... calm down.

jwk944209d ago

This isn't necessarily innovative. Wii U and PS3/Vita already do this. It's just a unified companion application.

bodybombs4209d ago

the idea may not be new, but the implementation of the idea is.

ItsTrue4209d ago (Edited 4209d ago )

"As an orange lover, I prefer oranges over apples. In fact, I love oranges so very much that if there was an article online specifically about apples, for people that like apples,
I would be a total jackass and post about how much I like oranges, and how everyone that likes apples are stupid."

mickaelmc4209d ago

I like what you were trying to do here. Sorry if my opinion hurts anyone. I'm a fan of video games. But yeah, I do have a preference but with good reason considering current events. Enjoy your smartglass.

bodybombs4209d ago

@mickaelmc bubble for being understanding

bodybombs4209d ago

see if i ever give a bubble again lol.

Blankman854209d ago

You sold your xbox so Microsoft doesn't owe you jack. Kindly leave.

AngelicIceDiamond4209d ago (Edited 4209d ago )

@Bodybombs is right you had no reason being in here. Saying that useless and offtopic statement. What you said didn't even contribute to this article in anyway.

Don't comment if you don't have nothing USEFUL to say.

As for this, it'll be interesting to have Xbox where ever you go and have touch screen functionality from your smartphone/tablets. Internet browse, play games, earn achievements, stream networks and manage friends/sort out beacons where ever you are in real time anytime, sounds very innovative.

See that's how you contribute since its complicated for you.

Knight_Crawler4209d ago

@Mickalomc - People who have to keep reminding them selfs why they got rid os something is usually signs of regret.

Dread4209d ago (Edited 4209d ago )

Forza Horizon
Halo 4
Fable Journey
Deadlight
Mark of the Ninja

All very recent xbox exclusives

you failed
try harder next time

TekoIie4209d ago (Edited 4209d ago )

MS did announce 3 new IP's which were completely overlooked at E3.

Ascend: New gods (This is F2P btw)
LocoCycle
Matter

They also showed their tops 3 IP's (Halo, Forza and Gears). So you know look at things in the real world in the future rather than whats currently being publicised.

+ Show (4) more repliesLast reply 4209d ago
bubblebeam4209d ago

I still vaguely know what smartglass is. Is this the thing Usher was dancing to? Lol.

Animal Mutha 764209d ago

I'd quite like the in game score board of BF3 to be on my iPad whilst playing. I often hit back just to view for a second and I often get shot or miss a kill opportunity whilst doing so.

Excited to see what smartglass can do.

300°

Microsoft Survey Asks About Handheld

A new survey from Microsoft has further hinted at the possibility of an Xbox handheld being in development.

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twistedvoxel.com
EasilyTheBest3d ago

This is definitely happening, I just hope they have 2 versions one with a much bigger screen.

GamerRN2d ago

I'll be happy with this, and a PC console hybrid that rivals anything we have power wise

Number1TailzFan2d ago

The problem with bigger devices is playing them on your side in bed, Vita and before that was fine. Since the Switch you gotta have a gooseneck holder & controllers detached so you can lie down holding them, or your arm will quickly get tired.

1Victor1d 23h ago

@thesofware: “A much bigger screen than what?”
A gaming laptop 🤷🏿🤣

Kosic1d 23h ago

Than the screen originally planned...duh... :D

darthv722d ago

it kinda already did... https://www.xbox.com/en-US/...

They are just gauging interest in one of their own.

crazyCoconuts1d 21h ago

A Xbox version of Logitech G-Cloud?
I mean, why bother? Not like the G cloud is flying off shelves and what would Xbox add to make it better?
They're surely not going to create bespoke architecture here and there are already a few Windows handhelds out there. I have little confidence in their ability to put together an attractive UI in the way Steam did. So I doubt anything will come from this.

KicksnSnares3d ago

Day One buy for me if they'll make a dedicated handheld device.

darthv722d ago

i have that logitech g-cloud. Its a sweet little piece of kit. I like that it can also install games from the play store unlike the other android based handheld.

mudakoshaka2d ago

It sure is! Don't understand why you get the down-votes. Whoever does not like the G Cloud must have been dropped down a well, head first, when they were of a younger age.

PassNextquestion2d ago

I wonder if Microsoft will perform better in Japan if they do actually make a handheld since everyone says handheld and mobile are king over there.

TiredGamer2d ago

This looks like the future of the game industry... all three platforms with a handheld option.

I wonder if the Playstation Portal is a technology test-bed/prototype for a future Playstation handheld?

rlow12d ago (Edited 2d ago )

It’s a possibility but I can’t help but think would that be the best way to go about it? Though it would give you data on how much it is used and game type. It’s still not a true portable device and so people approach it differently. I think that data on phones, tablets, and of course the competition would give a better indication.

But I really think if Sony is considering a new PSP that could play ps5 games, now would be the time to dive in. Honestly, if they do this, it would be huge.

Traecy2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Doubt if Sony PS wants to support a new handheld with first party games. Something they lacked with the Vita. What they should do is have a handheld that is like the PS Portal which can play all games but play those games on the go as well as at home. Something like that is a better investment.

TiredGamer2d ago

Agreed that you will probably never see a separate line of games specifically for the handheld (a la PSP or PSVita). The modern economics and expectations of game development make that cost prohibitive. What makes more sense is if the full-fat game on PS5 or PS6 has a special "handheld" profile that is automatically optimized for the lower spec handheld. There would be some significant compromises compared to the bigger console variant, but it would be the same game overall and would only require a single purchase.... somewhat what the Switch does with a lower resolution when playing handheld versus docked.

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310°

Xbox Games Showcase Followed by [REDACTED] Direct Airs June 9

- Xbox Wire - Mark your calendars! The Xbox Games Showcase followed by [REDACTED] Direct airs June 9. More info inside.

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news.xbox.com
bionicstar3d ago

Will they show Fable 4, Stalker 2, GoW 6 & Perfect Dark?

PhillyDonJawn3d ago

Crossing fingers for Fable and perfect dark. And State of Decay 3

RaidenBlack2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

And maybe Clockwork Revolution, South of Midnight, Contraband, Project 007 & OD? lol
and whatever happened to Everwild ?
+ that rumored Wu Tang RPG

Sonic18812d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Will they have official release dates and gameplay?

anast3d ago

Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming.

3d ago
Lightning773d ago

It's an Xbox showcase that they have every year.

Make smarter comments for once.

anast2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Tell me what a smarter comment is.

If they don't sell game pass the entire time, then I will be wrong. All of this can be proven once the show gets underway. Let's wait and see.

InUrFoxHole2d ago

@Anast
Anything you didn't type. Good day sir!

2d ago
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2d ago Replies(1)
Lightning772d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Wow too easy.

You went from MS going all streaming to selling gamepass content in which we all know they are.

Which one is it?

Pretty clear you don't know what a smart comment is at least you admit you don't know.

2d ago
anast2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

"Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming."

It's both. I would worry about your own intelligence at this point. It seems that there is not enough to go around for you to worry about how smart other people are.

Lightning772d ago

It's just a regular event announcing games. Nice one captain obvious they're gonna mention gp stuff like they do every year what else is new.

The all streaming part is just you, being you I guess. They have streaming options but going all streaming again is just you pulling stuff outta thin air.

anast2d ago

You don't know what a smart comment is or isn't. You're welcome for the help.

Lightning772d ago

No you said something dumb then you tried to back track and mention GP.

Again make smart comments for once.

anast2d ago

And we have broken record syndrome.

+ Show (6) more repliesLast reply 2d ago
darthv723d ago

Wonder if they will address the handheld rumors....?

jimb0j0nes3d ago

For a brief moment I thought we might get a whole Direct for Gears 6 - seems like it's COD though!

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290°

Microsoft’s Surface and Xbox hardware revenues take a big hit in Q3

Microsoft just posted the third quarter of its 2024 fiscal financial results. The software maker made $61.9 billion in revenue and a net income of $21.9 billion during Q3. Revenue is up 17 percent, and net income has increased by 20 percent.

Read Full Story >>
theverge.com
darthv727d ago

Xbox content + services up 62% while hardware down 31%... seems about right with the way they tout you don't need the hardware to play. People can play on their phones or smart tv or other means. I don't hardly play on my consoles directly since getting devices like the logitech g-cloud and ps portal. Which is to also say I have been playing more digital than physical because of these devices.

solideagle7d ago

you should apply in MS PR team buddy, I think you will do a great job in my humble opinion :)

Sonic18817d ago

I thought darthv72 and Obscure_Observer already work for Microsoft 🤔

dveio7d ago

MS: "Xbox services and content without AB up 1%, with AB up 62%. Hardware down 31%. In total a loss of 350 mill."

darthv72: "Seems about right."

MS: "Excuse m ..."

darthv72: "I don't hardly play on my consoles directly."

MS:

Lightning776d ago

What he said was facts. How he plays games is no concern of you. Don't get too mad about it.

Cacabunga7d ago

I can tell people like you are an absolute minority..

If service is up means their fans and fanboys accepted this model and subscribed to it. The near future you will see a big decline because the service is saturated.

darthv726d ago

to you it may seem like the minority... but your bubble is shrinking because more and more are following suit. convenience is a hell of a drug and its also why physical sales only amount to 30% of overall game sales. times are changing, you either get with them or you get left behind.

neutralgamer19926d ago

Darth

30% physical sales: yet Phil and xbox division are in a rush go give up on that 30%. they don't have any right to give up any piece of the pie since the control such a little of the pie to begin with

also, the market is clearly speaking that the model Xbox is pushing isn't working right now the keyword being right now. you are right about freedom to play anywhere so i hope they put their games on steam

shinoff21837d ago

But that's been ms for years. When things aren't going their way they try to change the way things are said. For instance console sales are down, they stop telling how many sold instead telling us how many hours spent in halo or headshots. So it makes sense console sales down just say people are playing on more devices then previous. What they won't say is how many xbox players jumped ship to ps5.

Cacabunga7d ago

Hardware sales are so bad that Sony and Nintendo are blowing the sales off the water with their hardware.

If Xbox are losers, others aren’t..
Xbox already tried everything with Xbox live then subscriptions went down so much that they had to find something else. Their fans subscribed then reached saturation rather quickly.

Hardware and exclusive games is where it’s at! Keep gamers excited, announce decent software and people will support you

itsmebryan7d ago

@shin
Well keep it simple Sony 's operating income is down 26% and Microsoft's is up 32%. No MS spin there, just facts. 😉
Cheers

S2Killinit6d ago

MS is after diminishing consoles as a medium. They want to destroy this market because they couldnt win. MS’s vision is to dissolve console gaming.

romulus236d ago

Odd that a company that touts you dont need the hardware to play is already touting another console in the works.

darthv726d ago

They are not reliant on the HW but still want to maintain a presence (no matter how small) is a good thing. It shows commitment to the craft. It reminds me of SNK and how they made games for their own hardware (Neo Geo) while also making them for others because they knew there was a market to do so. They knew they would sell more to others but also sell to their own niche fan base.

TheEroica6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

Perfectly reasonable post down voted by insecure corporation friendly folk.... But not gamers. Real gamer want accessibility and ease of acquisition for all.... Company shills are the only ones still telling us that hardware locking people from games is good for us.

Chevalier6d ago

@Darth

You should stop parroting metrics like an idiot without context.

"Xbox content and services revenue grew 62% in Q3 from a year earlier, “driven by 61 points of net impact” from the purchase of the third-party video game giant, Microsoft said."

61 of the 62% was from their merger so net increase is ONLY 1%

https://www.mesaonline.org/...

itsmebryan6d ago

@chevalier

It looks like made a great purchase. Much better then Sony buying Bungie. 😉
Cheers

+ Show (4) more repliesLast reply 6d ago
purple1017d ago

Xbox hardware revenue tanks to lowest point of Xbox Series generation

Profchaos7d ago

I'm not surprised surface is struggling they aren't relevant anymore

DOMination-6d ago

In the last two years they've started exiting the consumer market altogether. All of the newest Surface products are business models only. They can't seem to work out what they want to do with it.

XBManiac7d ago

Too expensive hardware when others offer the same or more for less? Good work, Green Team.

SimpleDad7d ago (Edited 7d ago )

"Despite some early successes for Xbox games on rival platforms, Xbox hardware is down by a massive 31 percent this quarter."
"Without Activision Blizzard, Microsoft’s overall gaming revenue would have actually declined this quarter."
"Xbox content and services would have only been up a single percent without Activision Blizzard..."
"It looks like next quarter is going to be a similar story for gaming at Microsoft, too."

That is crazy... so A/B/K is carrying the whole Xbox gaming.
Oh and Microsoft will be fine. Windows, Office and Cloud are growing with each pc purchase.

purple1017d ago

Activision: "we gonna need a bigger rucksack/backpack please"

Microsoft: "why's that"

Activision: "to carry yo' weak ass'

Profchaos7d ago (Edited 7d ago )

Top brass have also wanted to start seeing returns on the 100 billion they have put into various Xbox related moves so seeing more multiplatform games is highly likely especially from abk

It's basically saying that PlayStation is the reason Xbox is afloat right now thinks to Ps5 versions of COD

Kornholic7d ago

So basically PS and PC gamers' money is keeping Xbox on life support.

MrDead6d ago

The only growth MS will get out of the console industry is if it supports it's rivals platforms. Xbox is a pointless machine now. I can see them on a big push for live next, and they won't give up on trying to buy Steam.

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