Microsoft Integrates Messenger with Xbox Live
Microsoft has announced its planned upgrades to the Xbox 360, expected on May 7. Among the new features are integration with the Windows Live Messenger network.
The new functionality expands the messaging capabilities beyond the Xbox Live gaming network to the entire Messenger community. The messaging services will be unified for simplicity's sake, Microsoft says.
For example, if a WLM user has a gamertag on Xbox Live, it will be shown in their friends list on the console. Microsoft expects the service to promote further use of the communication options of the Xbox 360; two million voice and text messages are already sent per day.
"Bringing the largest IM community in the world, Windows Live Messenger, to Xbox 360 makes sense, as Xbox LIVE has really become the largest social network on television," Xbox Live product unit head Jerry Johnson said.
Users will be able to chat using the on-screen or compatible external USB keyboard. An accessory that adds a QWERTY keyboard to the standard Xbox 360 controller will be launched in the summer.
In addition to the Messenger features, the Spring Update will also include several other requested features, including richer achievement notification pop-ups, enhancements to the family settings feature, and a new Marketplace blade for easier access to premium content.
Microsoft also plans to make several enhancements to the Xbox Live Arcade, which will allow users to see what Arcade games their friends are playing, as well as better Tell a Friend and Leaderboard capabilities. A user will also be able to download the entire collection of trial games through a new option in Auto Downloads.
Other updates address playback while downloading content, as well as auto-shutoff after completion, the company added.