Andre Yoskowitz
17 Nov 2009 12:31
Microsoft has updated their Xbox 360 services today, adding the long hyped Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and Zune Video apps.
"It's the community that drives us forward, and it's the community that allows us to pioneer new ways of connecting people through the entertainment they love," says Neil Thompson, senior director of Microsoft's Entertainment Division in UK & Ireland. "Tonight we're celebrating the transformation of the TV as tomorrow everyone will be able to enjoy some truly exciting interactive entertainment experiences which continues to deliver on our vision of connected entertainment for everyone."
Users will need an Xbox Live Gold subscription to access the services and the full features are as follows (via GI.biz):
Facebook: Update your status to share the movie, game or entertainment you're enjoying, connect with friends and view their Facebook stream, status updates and photos on the big screen - as well as compare your Xbox Live and Facebook friends lists.
Twitter: Discover, post, and reply to Tweets on your Xbox 360. You can view friend profiles, trends and conversations, or search Twitter content.
Last.fm: Set up personalised radio stations with Last.fm on Xbox 360. Skip, 'ban' or 'love' songs to create your perfect mix, with built-in "Gamer Stations" featuring music selected specifically for the gaming community (available in the US and UK).
Zune: A premium high fidelity video experience with instant-on HD in 1080p and 5.1 channel surround sound for Xbox Live, with no waiting for downloads or buffering. The experience can also be shared with up to seven friends through voice chat and Avatar integration on the TV screen.