Game On! Microsoft Announces Connection Between Xbox Live and Windows 7 Phones
As part of its continued efforts to catch up to Apple in the mobile technology market, Microsoft has announced that it will directly connect new Windows Phone 7 smartphones with its Xbox Live service.
The move was announced at the Game Developers Conference Europe, in Germany. There, Microsoft revealed a list of Xbox Live games coming to the Windows 7 Phone platform, and reiterated their intent to make portable gaming a focus.
Such a move would make sense for the software giant as it attempts to play catch up in a field currently dominated by Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android based phones.
Microsoft’s previous forays into mobile technology, notably Windows Mobile, have not been outright failures, but have never been able to generate the same level of enthusiasm and support that Apple’s products have.
Tying its newest phone venture to one of its greatest strengths – gaming and the Xbox Live application – seems likely to catapult Microsoft back into the chase, at least.
With titles announced from well known publishers, including Konami, Namco, and Gameloft, Microsoft is already tapping into one of its greatest resources.
The Xbox Live tie in is one Microsoft is betting will be a considerable draw for gamers. For the first time, a device other than a PC or the Xbox itself will be able to connect and display a user’s avatar, achievements, and profiles, and status, as well as play games.
Microsoft says that new games, most with free playable demos, will be available weekly via the Xbox Live service.
While the company has revealed relatively little about Windows Phone7, making it impossible to gauge its potential as a true competitor for the iPhone and the higher end Android based smartphones, making the gaming connection is a significant step.
By playing to its strength, and leveraging resources Apple and Android just don’t have, Microsoft has left itself poised to be a big time player in the one significant technology arena it has always trailed in.
About RESCUECOM:
RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.
For More Information, Contact:
David Milman, CEO
315-882-1100
david@rescuecom.com
Filed under: apple, Microsoft, news, smartphone