Preview: Facebook on Xbox 360 works well
I recently attended a Microsoft event in New York City and was able to test-drive a few new products and services, including Windows phones, Microsoft Office 2010, advanced Bing search features and 1080p video streaming via Xbox 360. I also was able to try out Facebook on Xbox Live, and it works quite well.
Fans of social networks such as Facebook or Twitter might have heard the news the popular services are expanding to Xbox 360 later this year.
So long as you have an Xbox Live account — Gold account for free access, Silver account for a free trial — you can log into these networks from your big-screen television and while reclining on your favourite La-Z-Boy.
I just played around with the Facebook app for Xbox 360 and it works very well. Your custom Xbox avatar greets you at the main Facebook page and then you use the controller to cycle through the various sections: profile updates, messages and wall posts, photos, news feeds, and so forth.
A tip for future users: it’s highly recommended to use a keyboard for extensive typing instead of using the onscreen “soft” keyboard. In fact, I’d pick up the BlackBerry-like Chatpad ($34.99), which is part of the Xbox Messenger Kit, that cleverly snaps underneath the Xbox 360 controller for easy typing.
Also demonstrated by a Microsoft rep was the ability to merge your Xbox Live buddy list — friends who you like to play or communicate with online — with your Facebook friends.
Not sure about you guys, but I love the idea of a big-screen Facebook in the family room. I can see what my friends are up to, send a message or check out some photos — all while chillin’ on the couch.
Would you use this when it comes out by year-end?
when is this coming out/when is it expected to come out?
Hi Cross,
Microsoft said “this year,” but won’t confirm WHEN exactly.
Also coming to Xbox Live is 1080p video streaming, which also looked great, Twitter support, streaming music channels and more.
Marc
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November 17th is when it’s out.
That is the exact date of assassins creed 2! Hooray!
sweeet !