A few days ago we reported on a new app coming from Microsoft, Xbox SmartGlass, that creates a connection between a user’s mobile device and their Xbox. The app is similar to immersive entertainment solutions like Netflix or IntoNow that enable you to watch content on your big screen TV while controlling the content from your device. These apps typically provide you with access to other information about the content and social media interaction with other fans. Xbox SmartGlass does the same thing for users who have an Xbox Live Gold subscription and the popular gaming platform.
When Microsoft released a video about Xbox SmartGlass, it appeared it would be released today only with support for Windows 8 devices. Android and iOS version supposedly would not appear until early 2013. Like Samsung’s announcement about the U.S. rollout of Jelly Bean for Samsung Galaxy S III devices that indicated “coming months,” only to be followed up a week later by Sprint’s rollout, it looks like someone at Microsoft decided sooner was better than later.
Xbox SmartGlass for Android is now available in the Google Play Store. It does require Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and up. Microsoft also indicates a WVGA screen resolution or better is required. Along with some of the features previously covered, it appears the app can also be used as a remote keyboard for your Xbox games and apps. Microsoft indicates you can browse the Internet with full keyboard and zooming, but is not clear whether this means using a browser on the Xbox or a browser on your smartphone that is then mirrored via the Xbox. You may recall this was one of the questions generated by Microsoft’s earlier video since it indicated IE was required.
If you are interested in trying out Xbox SmartGlass for Android, use one of the download links below. Be sure to let us know how it works, especially that web browsing bit.
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