Microsoft Brings Xbox Expertise to Windows Phone 7 Line

Microsoft is leveraging its video game expertise to boost the appeal of its Windows Phone 7 line, aiming to compete with Apple's iPhone. A dedicated team inside Microsoft Game Studios will develop games for Windows phones, assist outside publishers, and scout independent game makers. Popular Xbox 360 console games such as "Halo Waypoint" and "Guitar Hero 5" will be available on Windows phones, along with new games like "ilomilo." The company is also integrating the Windows phone games hub with Xbox Live, allowing 25 million Xbox and PC gamers to access new games, track scores, and interact with their animated game-world avatar.

Key Takeaways:

• Microsoft is utilizing its video game expertise to enhance the appeal of Windows Phone 7, competing with Apple's iPhone.
• A dedicated team inside Microsoft Game Studios will develop games for Windows phones, assist outside publishers, and identify independent game makers.
• Popular Xbox 360 console games such as "Halo Waypoint" and "Guitar Hero 5" will be available on Windows phones.
• The company is linking the Windows phone games hub with Xbox Live, enabling 25 million Xbox and PC gamers to access new games, track scores, and interact with their animated game-world avatar.
• Microsoft is also anticipating a potential boost from the launch of Kinect, a motion-sensing game controller for the Xbox 360, which is expected to appeal to new players.
• The integration of Xbox Live on Windows Phone 7 devices may attract gamers who are already invested in the Xbox ecosystem.

Statistics:

• 25 million: The number of Xbox and PC gamers currently using Xbox Live.
• 2: The number of console games, including "Halo Waypoint" and "Guitar Hero 5," already available on Windows phones.

Sources:

• Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Nikon, USA