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Xbox Live Will Soon Connect Players on Android, iOS and Switch (engadget.com)

Posted by msmash on from the shape-of-things-to-come dept.

Microsoft is getting ready to release an important software development kit (SDK) that will allow game developers to integrate Xbox Live into any titles that run across PC, Xbox, iOS, Android, and Nintendo Switch. From a report: A Microsoft session at the upcoming Game Developers Conference mentions that Xbox Live will soon have a cross-platform developer kit that integrates the service into Android, iOS and Switch games. You'd have your achievements, clubs, friends list and "more" while on the move, and could pick up on some experiences where you left off. The session will provide a "first look" at the kit. You shouldn't expect titles to support Xbox Live for a while, even if the software toolbox is complete by the time GDC starts.

5 of 47 comments (clear)

  1. No Playstation port? by jellomizer · · Score: 2

    While not a big fan of Microsoft, it would be nice to buy a game for what ever platform I have/want and be able to play it with other players even though they are not using my platform of choice.

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    If something is so important that you feel the need to post it on the internet... It probably isn't that important.
    1. Re:No Playstation port? by Dan+East · · Score: 2

      We're pretty much to the point where only Microsoft and Sony are competing against each other in the console market. Nintendo's hardware and software titles are so different than either MS or Sony that you would own a Switch or DS because you want that specific type of gaming. Then in addition to the Nintendo you would get an XBox, PS, or even a gaming PC, for that kind of more traditional console gaming. Sure, there is some overlap and there are titles that are available for Switch that are also available for XBox and PS4, but that is more of a "bonus" to the Switch than its bread and butter.

      So having said all that, MS isn't afraid of Nintendo, because the average XBox gamer wouldn't be totally drawn away from that brand to Nintendo (nor would they to iOS or Android). However they do have Sony in their sights, and by offering this ability (where Sony does not) they are adding value and distinction to their product compared to their competitor.

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      Better known as 318230.
    2. Re: No Playstation port? by jellomizer · · Score: 2

      Well Nintendo, seems to be always dropping it personal community network system and making a new one for every hardware upgrade, then turning it off after a year or so.

      Wii No longer can play Mario Cart Wii online.
      Wii-U I am now welcomed by the default connection, and real traffic.

      I don't think Nintendo neally gets online game communities. And I bet they would be happy to get Microsoft to do it for them. Perhaps Nintendo, can use the extra resources to boost the specs in their gaming consoles to be closer to what the others have.

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      If something is so important that you feel the need to post it on the internet... It probably isn't that important.
  2. Re:Microsoft being Microsoft by dryriver · · Score: 2

    Using the ether, as Nikola Tesla described it. By building Wardenclyffe-like electrical towers on multiple continents and using the ether, Microsoft will be able to push Windows 10-like forced updates and reboots anywhere in the world. The device doesn't matter - even your smart TV and smart fridge will now get Windows 10 updates. As the technology matures, Microsoft will even be able to update and reboot human brains, and also push ads into those brains at will. (Runs off to download the new SDK)

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    Why did the chicken cross the road? Because Elon Musk put an AI chip in its head.
  3. Probably Vaporware by Sir+Holo · · Score: 2

    Microsoft announces things that they never intend to release all the time. We will probably never see it.

    It was perhaps announced to put pressure on Steam and other non-hardware-tethered gaming-software makers. To make them waste their money. Or perhaps another reason