New Xbox app adds web browser, links console to cellphones

GlobalPost

Microsoft today unveiled a new "SmartGlass" application for Xbox, a new split-screen device allowing users to control TVs from touchscreen cellphones an browse the Internet, said Reuters

The move will allow the company to better compete a raft of new web-equipped televisions, reported Reuters

More from GlobalPost: AOL, Microsoft reach $1 billion patent deal

The news came during the company's presentation at the industry E3 trade show in Los Angeles today, which also saw a sneak preview of the highly-anticipated launch of "Xbox Music" expected to challenge Apple's iTunes, Pandora, and Spotify, according to CNET

Company representativeness also said there were plans to sell Xbox music on a cloud just like iTunes and Amazon.com, said Reuters.

The "SmartGlass" application allows Xbox users to surf online and use a voice recognition software similar to the latest iPhone's "Siri," according to Reuters

Microsoft has sold 67 million units since its launch seven years ago, said Reuters

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