Microsoft abandoned social media apps on the Xbox 360 in 2012 by delisting Facebook and Twitter from the console’s marketplace, but now the company is reversing course on its new console by integrating Twitter directly into the Xbox One’s TV programming guide.
When Twitter integration launches for Xbox One this year, it will be found in the console’s programming listing, OneGuide, as well as live TV shows themselves. The feature will show users what’s being tweeted in real time by with the press of a controller button, and it will also allow users to retweet or favorite tweets.
Larry Hryb, Xbox Live’s director of programming, explained how the integration will work in a video uploaded to YouTube. Hryb said the first place users will notice the integration is in OneGuide and a trending section, while live TV will be more interactive.
“The second place you can experience Twitter is in the TV miniguide by pressing the view button on the controller,” he said. “In the mini guide, you can see the conversation that’s happening on Twitter through the stream – that includes relevant hashtags for each show, the [show’s] official Twitter handles, and tweets from the cast and crew.”
A specific release date wasn’t provided for the integration, though Microsoft typically launches new Xbox One features shortly after in-depth demonstrations.
Microsoft previously said Twitter integration would be coming to the NFL app on Xbox One, though a spokeswoman told Neowin in October 2013 that the company had “ongoing conversations with partners” about new social media experiences on the console.
In addition to the Twitter integration, Microsoft announced 35 new entertainment apps coming to the Xbox One – notably including another social network, the Twitter-owned Vine. Microsoft didn’t state if users will be able to record Vine videos with Kinect, however, only saying they will be able to watch videos and browse channels on the social network.
Other Xbox One apps announced today include EPIX, HBO GO, iHeartRadio, Sky News, STARZ Play, Vevo and more. All the major U.S. professional sports leagues will also soon be on the console, as the NBA and NHL will launch official apps; the MLB and NFL already have apps for the platform.
Microsoft also revealed 17 new apps for the Xbox 360, such as FXNOW, Sky News and three apps for Disney’s channels. To see a full list of the 35 new Xbox One and 17 new Xbox 360 apps, click here.
Source: Xbox Wire | Image via Microsoft
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