Joystiq

Xbox unfollows Twitter and unfriends Facebook, apps 'retired' from dash

Sinan Kubba — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST

The Fall 2012 Update currently rolling out removes Twitter and Facebook from the Xbox dashboard, and Microsoft have confirmed the apps are officially being 'retired.' Speaking to IGN, Microsoft said it's "retiring the Facebook and Twitter apps," although the company didn't comment regards whether or not they may ever return. Microsoft is recommending Xbox users instead access Twitter and Facebook via Internet Explorer 9, which is included in the Fall Update.

It was three Fall Updates ago when Twitter and Facebook arrived on Xbox 360. Yes, nearly three years ago when everyone logged in on that first day to tweet or post a status update from their consoles, then immediately reverted to however they tweeted or updated their statuses before. Ah, memories.

Xbox unfollows Twitter and unfriends Facebook, apps 'retired' from dash originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video walkthrough: Xbox 360 Fall 2012 dashboard update

David Hinkle — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 01:00:00 EST

Microsoft is preparing to update your Xbox 360's UI, but we thought it'd be good to give you a look-see at the Xbox 360 Fall 2012 dashboard update ahead of time - you know, let you get used to all the changes. And granted you're a Gold subscriber, when the update drops to the public you'll finally be able to read Joystiq on your Xbox 360 using Internet Explorer, which we're well aware has been something you've wanted for a long time. For, like, maybe six years. Enjoy!

Video walkthrough: Xbox 360 Fall 2012 dashboard update originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox's 'Kinect PlayFit' dashboard keeps track of cross-game calorie burning

JC Fletcher — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 10:20:00 EST

"Kinect PlayFit," first seen in leaks, is now officially announced - and officially released today! That means we can finally understand what Kinect PlayFit is: a special "fitness dashboard" that tracks your calories lost across multiple Kinect games, "from Dance Central 2 to Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012 to Kinect Star Wars," according to Microsoft.

The dashboard also features leaderboards and social "activity challenges," two ideas that probably either motivate you to keep up your fitness routine or make you feel very uncomfortable, depending on how fit you already are. It even has its own Achievements.

Xbox's 'Kinect PlayFit' dashboard keeps track of cross-game calorie burning originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Microsoft readying 'Woodstock' music service for Xbox 360, to debut at E3

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:15:00 EST

When you think modern, digital music, your mind probably immediately jumps to 30-plus-year-old music festivals. Microsoft clearly understands this, as the company is allegedly preparing a relaunch/rebranding of its Xbox 360 Zune music service to be debuted at E3 2012, dubbed "Woodstock." The Verge's report comes from "sources familiar with the company's plans;" said report paints Woodstock as functional across a variety of platforms beyond the 360: Windows 8, iOS, and Android. Despite an E3 introduction, the service isn't planned for launch until this fall when Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 arrive.

iTunes Match-esque functionality is also said to be part of Woodstock which will upload your library and match it with anything you've snagged from Woodstock. The report calls the service, "Spotify-like," with Facebook integration intended to allow collaboration on playlists and let users share tracks between libraries. We've asked Microsoft for a response to the report, but aren't expecting much beyond a wordy "no comment." We'll update this post if we hear anything else.

Update: Shock! Microsoft reps tell Joystiq, "Microsoft does not comment on rumors or speculation." Back to listening to our Woodstock live album for now.

Report: Microsoft readying 'Woodstock' music service for Xbox 360, to debut at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: UFC, VUDU, other video apps now available on Xbox 360

David Hinkle — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST

A slew of new video apps have debuted through Microsoft's updated Xbox 360 dashboard, including the UFC app and VUDU. Here's the full list:

4 on Demand (C4) -- United Kingdom
ABC iView (Australian Broadcasting Corp.) -- Australia
Dailymotion -- Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Columbia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, India, Italy, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland , Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States, South Africa
Demand 5 (Five) -- United Kingdom
M6 -- France
MSN Video -- France
UFC on Xbox LIVE (UFC) -- Canada, United States
VUDU (Wal-Mart) -- United States

You can download each app through the video tab on your Xbox 360, assuming you're in a region that supports it.

PSA: UFC, VUDU, other video apps now available on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Xbox Dashboard features leave Indie Games in the lurch

David Hinkle — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 01:05:00 EST

Now that the new Xbox 360 Dashboard is out there, many are finding the new features don't extend to Indie Games. Sure, Indies haven't supported Achievements for a while, and there's always been a price ceiling, but it looks like Beacons don't work with them, cloud storage isn't supported, and new releases don't appear under, well, new releases.

It's all in the video above, provided by GameMarx. Even that new Xbox iOS app doesn't list Indies. Why is nobody thinking of the little guys?

New Xbox Dashboard features leave Indie Games in the lurch originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 01:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Xbox dashboard update 'slightly delayed' (Update - rolling out to subscribers now)

Richard Mitchell — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:03:00 EST

(Update: According to Major Nelson's Twitter feed, the dashboard update is being pushed to accounts in batches, and should be widely available over the next few hours.)

After Microsoft announced several new services would miss the December 6 launch of the Xbox dashboard update, it has revealed that another major component will also miss the planned launch, namely the dashboard update itself. Major Nelson tweeted the news, noting, "the timing for the Xbox 360 dashboard update has been slightly delayed." Concerned citizens will receive a status update "later today."

Given the last minute nature of the delay -- so last minute that it didn't halt this morning's press release announcing the rollout -- we can't yet say for sure whether it's a matter of hours or days.

PSA: Xbox dashboard update 'slightly delayed' (Update - rolling out to subscribers now) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Xbox Dashboard preview applications now closed

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST

Hopefully you didn't put off applying for Microsoft's Xbox Dashboard public preview, because applications are now closed. Major Nelson broke the news, noting that "we have reached our target audience volume." Those lucky enough to get into the program should be notified within the next two weeks.

The rest of us will just be over here, kicking up some dust and letting out a collective "shucks."

PSA: Xbox Dashboard preview applications now closed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumor: PayPal memo puts November 15 date on Xbox dash update

JC Fletcher — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST

Kotaku reports that a leaked internal memo from PayPal lists November 15 as the date of the new Xbox 360 Dashboard update. It's the one that refreshes the look and adds more Kinect integration, if you haven't been following all the menu news.

Why would PayPal be talking about the new Xbox dash? Reportedly, PayPal employees have been asked to test the new system, likely as it relates to payment options. PayPal support was added in the last Dashboard update, in the spring. We're contacting PayPal; if the people there truly have an interest in being our pals, they'll confirm the date.

Rumor: PayPal memo puts November 15 date on Xbox dash update originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live Fall Dashboard preview: From 'nonsense' to Metro

David Hinkle — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:20:00 EST

Terry Farrell, senior product manager of Xbox Live entertainment, is pretty excited about the new Fall Dashboard update. As the individual who partners with first and third-party video content providers, he's the go-to guy to talk to about Microsoft's future plans for offering video content. Too bad he couldn't get too specific with us.

Continue reading Xbox Live Fall Dashboard preview: From 'nonsense' to Metro

Xbox Live Fall Dashboard preview: From 'nonsense' to Metro originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Xbox dashboard now has a name: Twist Control

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST

Update: It sounds like "Twist Control" is a generic name for the panel-scrolling UI element which has appeared in various Microsoft products, such as the Zune HD, and not the proper name for the Dashboard. We thought it was a little fishy -- in an interview with Joystiq earlier this month, Microsoft's David Dennis said the company was calling the updated interface the "new dash," because "we didn't want it to stick like NXE did." We apologize for the confusion.

During floor demos at Gamescom, Microsoft revealed the moniker of its new, Kinect-centric Xbox 360 Dashboard: "Twist Control." We think we can all agree that this is the best name that the platform's navigation tools have had thus far. Well, okay, "Blades" might give it a run for its money, but it'd be a pretty close race.

Then again, we haven't seen much twisting from the interface -- isn't there a more context appropriate title out there? Something like "Space Windows" or "Wizard Buttons" or "The Telekinesis Engine" or "Intangible Frames" or "The Even Newer Xbox Experience" or "Minority Report" or "Bark Commands at Your Xbox Until Your Neighbors Think That You Are a Legit Crazy Person."

New Xbox dashboard now has a name: Twist Control originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: How the new Xbox Dash watches your every move

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST

Microsoft has released a new video about the upcoming Xbox 360 Dashboard update. There's not a great deal of new information to be had, though this is one of the few public glimpses of the new dash offered by the company.

One worrying note about the video: There's a large emphasis on the revised Dashboard learning about the user. As Xbox Live corporate VP Marc Whitten forebodingly puts it, "It's not about you learning about our technology, it's about our technology learning about you [emphasis added]." In other words, you might want to stop gaming in your underwear.

Video: How the new Xbox Dash watches your every move originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBC News section on Xbox dashboard expanded, moved

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 03:20:00 EST

You know that well-hidden NBC News tab that lives on the Inside Xbox channel of your 360 Dashboard? No? Well, let's start over, then: There's an NBC News tab on the Inside Xbox channel, which allows you to stream content from NBC News. We wouldn't blame you for not being aware of its existence; fortunately, Microsoft has made the decision to move the content to the slightly more trafficked Video Marketplace portion of the Dashboard.

According to Major Nelson, the channel now features higher quality video, as well as additional categorized features like Most Viewed, NBC Nightly News and the Today Show. It's the closest you're ever going to get to playing Halo: Reach with Al Roker. Or is it? (No, it probably is.) (OR IS IT?)

NBC News section on Xbox dashboard expanded, moved originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jun 2011 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Latest Xbox Dashboard preview to test 'updated' disc format; testers get free Halo: Reach

Randy Nelson — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 16:01:00 EST

Major Nelson has revealed on his blog that Microsoft is preparing to conduct another seasonal Xbox 360 Dashboard "preview program," this time to kick the tires of an "updated Xbox 360 disc format." For participating, testers will receive a copy of Halo: Reach in addition to "other possible rewards."

Sign-ups are now open at Microsoft Connect, with Major Nelson saying that the company is "looking for multiple thousands of participants, so your chances of making it in are good." Unlike with last fall's update preview, there's no mention of this update prohibiting participants from playing online or voice chatting with Xbox Live members who aren't part of the beta program. The preview is restricted to US residents, though both Gold and "Free" Xbox Live members can sign up -- with Gold members given the priority come selection time.

As for the new disc format: Since it will need to remain compatible with current 360 disc drives, the update is likely just related to copy protection -- in which case, the free copy of Reach probably uses it. We've contacted Microsoft for more details and will update as we get them.

Latest Xbox Dashboard preview to test 'updated' disc format; testers get free Halo: Reach originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live Indie Games store now falls under Games & Demos section

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:15:00 EST

In a remarkably quick 180 (for the 360), Microsoft has moved its Xbox Live Indie Games channel back into the "Games & Demos" section of Xbox Live Marketplace. When the fall Dashboard update hit Xbox 360 last week, the Indie Games channel was swept into the "Specialty Shops" section, alongside Avatar clothing items rather than other video games.

The folks most affected by the change -- Xbox Live Indie Game developers -- have taken to the Microsoft forums to celebrate the change, saying, "Microsoft ARE LISTENING! Indie Games are back in the games section! We ARE having an effect. The new placement isnt PERFECT - but its a huge step in the right direction. The icon feels very out of place being such a different style -- and in searches etc. it doesnt look like indie games are included - but we ARE in the games section." The original complaint forum thread has even been changed from "xbligs are not 'games' any longer" to "mourning is over!", giving an indication of just how important the re-categorization was to the XBLIG development community.

Xbox Live Indie Games store now falls under Games & Demos section originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live Fall Dashboard update coming November 1

Ben Gilbert — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST

Looks like the handful of folks with early Kinect games who're locked out of Xbox Live won't have too much longer to wait -- Microsoft emailed fall Dashboard preview users last night with the announcement that the forthcoming Xbox Live update will go public on November 1. "On November 1, 2010, there will be a mandatory service update to Xbox Live. This update will both add new features to your service and also enhance the interface, navigation, and responsiveness of Xbox Live," the email reads.

Beyond Kinect functionality, the fall Dashboard update will add ESPN3, refreshed Avatars, and a new voice codec for chat (among other things). This means, besides all that stuff, you'll finally be able to chat with your friends in the Dashboard preview once more. It's been so long, friends!

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Xbox Live Fall Dashboard update coming November 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft outlines changes and improvements coming in dashboard update

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

A few of the upcoming Xbox 360 Dashboard update's biggest changes have been heavily touted by Microsoft over the past few months: Things like a redesigned Zune Marketplace, ESPN streaming video and the power to control things with your ~~mind~~ gestures. However, a few of the update's lesser known functions were recently explained by Microsoft -- for instance, did you know that the update will improve voice chat quality, a more streamlined approach to connecting to wireless hotspots, and also, sometimes, your 360's disc tray will produce sizzling strips of hickory-smoked bacon?

To find out which one of those things we said was a bold-faced lie, check out the full list of changes coming in the next Dashboard update after the jump.

Continue reading Microsoft outlines changes and improvements coming in dashboard update

Microsoft outlines changes and improvements coming in dashboard update originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video tour: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard update

David Hinkle — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Join us in our video preview of the upcoming Xbox 360 Dashboard update. While Microsoft keeps the Kinect component under wraps, we've got plenty to show you: there's the promised ESPN content, updated Netflix functionality (now featuring "search") and, of course, the new Dashboard UI. Oh, and Avatars are looking a bit different and sporting some new features.

Hit a link below to jump to the corresponding video or watch them all after the break.

Dashboard and Family Settings | ESPN | Netflix Search | Avatars

Gallery: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard Update (Zune and ESPN)

Continue reading Video tour: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard update

Video tour: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kinect dashboard navigation works while seated

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 07:01:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

We've been told before that the Xbox 360's Kinect would work when "an experience is developed with sitting in mind," but we hadn't had the opportunity to really test that. In a Gamescom meeting, where we saw the Kinect version of the Xbox dashboard, we tried out the menu system and movie controls to test its recognition of seated users:

Sitting in a chair: Definitely works.
Sitting on the floor: Works.
Reclining while facing the Kinect: Works.
Reclining with the Kinect at our side: We couldn't get this to work, but we've been told that it will by launch.
Using another human as a coffee table (should have taken photos!): Kinect recognized the person behind the human coffee table trying to control the movie.

According to Microsoft, Kinect was running on an improved version of the software used during E3 in June. The manufacturer is set to make further improvements before the camera's November debut.

Kinect dashboard navigation works while seated originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumor: Images of new Xbox 360 dashboard leaked [update]

JC Fletcher — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 21:30:00 EST

Ready for the new New Xbox Experience? French site Logic-Sunrise has posted shots of what appears to be a new version of the Xbox 360 Dashboard interface. This purported UI features a "Natal Tuner" application and a "Natal" setup process (which cutely directs requests for help to the @xboxsupport Twitter account). Since it hasn't been updated with the new "Kinect" title, these shots likely originate from an older dashboard build.

It makes sense for Microsoft to ready a new Dashboard -- the console has a new look and a new controller, so it only follows that Microsoft would take that last rebranding step for the next phase of the Xbox 360 life cycle.

[Update: The images have been removed from Logic-Sunrise, replaced by a Microsoft takedown notice.]

Rumor: Images of new Xbox 360 dashboard leaked [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kinect gets its own wave-activated Xbox sub-dashboard

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:18:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

It appears that Kinect will be getting its own version of the Xbox Dashboard (seen above), enabling both gesture-based and voice-activated commands on the Xbox 360. From what we're seeing in this morning, the new sub-dashboard will allow the waving of hands and ... uh ... speaking of words to control everything from Netflix to Last.fm to Facebook (and even SkyTV for our friends in the UK). Presumably it'll be arriving alongside Kinect this November.

Kinect gets its own wave-activated Xbox sub-dashboard originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox 360 USB data storage announced, coming April 6

Justin McElroy — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 09:45:00 EST

Look at Major Nelson, dropping the scoop about USB drive support being added to the Xbox 360 like it's news to you. It's adorable. Okay, okay, so he did have some new information -- like a launch date. April 6 -- but otherwise things seem to be exactly as we laid them out a week ago: You'll be able to use up to 16GB of two separate USB-based storage devices for a total of 32GB of extra storage.

He also offered some new screens! Experience the face-melting user interface excitement of right here.

Xbox 360 USB data storage announced, coming April 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Standalone Xbox 250GB HDD confirmed by Dashboard [update]

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST

While Microsoft may have stated up, down and sidesaddle that the 250GB version of its Xbox 360 HDD would remain exclusive to special console bundles (e.g., Modern Warfare 2 and Splinter Cell: Conviction), it would appear that the particular drive will arrive as a standalone accessory sometime soon. As spotted by eagle-eyed Joystiq reader Rodney in the Spotlight section of the Xbox 360 Dashboard (pictured above), the accessory should be available at "participating retailers" rather soon -- the ad's wording indicates that the HDD might already be on store shelves (as of this writing, Amazon has the product listed without a price).

Though it's odd to see an official reveal through the Xbox Dashboard, we have been hearing rumblings about a standalone version of the 250GB HDD for quite some time -- listings even popped up on retail sites earlier this month bearing ... today's date! We've contacted Microsoft for pricing and release info, but until the West Coast wakes up, we've got this thrilling hi-res gallery of the Dashboard advertisement for you below.

[Update: We've just gotten official word from Microsoft that the 250 GB HDD retails for $129.99 and should be available today.]

Gallery: Xbox 360 Dashboard with 250GB HDD ad

[Thanks Rodney!]

Standalone Xbox 250GB HDD confirmed by Dashboard [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox 360 Dashboard update 'preview' open for signups

Randy Nelson — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:15:00 EST

As it has done in the past, Microsoft is offering early access to its next Xbox 360 Dashboard update (which integrates Twitter, Facebook, Last.fm and Zune Marketplace) to those who sign up -- and are then selected -- to preview it. Major Nelson has just updated his blog with word that the signup process has begun for the program, mentioning that Microsoft is looking for "multiple thousands" of users to test out the update. So, sounds like chances of getting in are good.

Those wishing to put their names in the hat for preview access can do so by hitting the Microsoft Connect site and filling out a survey. The preview program is being offered in all territories where Xbox Live is available, but keep in mind you'll need a Windows Live ID in order to apply. The Major says those who've been picked will receive an email in about a week; after which the update will be pushed out to their consoles, and they can start bragging about their early access via Twitter and Facebook right from their 360s.

If past Dashboard preview programs are anything to go by, everyone who signs up will eventually gain access just prior to the update's release -- which may happen on November 17.

Gallery: Facebook / Twitter on Xbox 360

Xbox 360 Dashboard update 'preview' open for signups originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Facebook and Twitter arrive November 17 on Xbox Live in the UK

Ben Gilbert — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST

Though Microsoft has been a bit cagey with a solid release date for the upcoming Facebok/Twitter/Last.Fm update for Xbox Live, eagle-eyed UK readers have spotted the phrase "Service launches 17th November 2009" on the UK Xbox website (seen above).

When we recently got to give the services a spin at Microsoft's First Annual Open House, the company wouldn't give us a set-in-stone release date, though MTV Multiplayer were told a public beta for the services would arrive for XBL Gold Members in the "middle-towards-end of October." We've contacted Microsoft for word on when the services will be arriving on this side of the pond, though ... well ... it's the weekend. We'd suggest you don't go holding your breath for that info until Monday.

[Thanks, Scump!]

Gallery: Facebook / Twitter on Xbox 360

Facebook and Twitter arrive November 17 on Xbox Live in the UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hands-on: Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and Zune Marketplace on Xbox 360

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 19:35:00 EST

"Xbox comes from a gaming heritage, and is expanding into a broader entertainment brand," Microsoft's Robbie Bach told us earlier today at its first Open House event in New York. Powering Xbox's expansion into "broader entertainment" is the upcoming Dashboard update, scheduled for beta release later this month. Four services included in the update will expand the 360's social networking and multimedia capabilities: Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and Zune Marketplace.

While each individual service may not offer the same value that Netflix did when it debuted with the NXE last year, it's hard to ignore the breadth of added functionality offered by this new Dashboard refresh. Yes, it's true that the Xbox isn't the most ideal platform to tweet from. And yes, it's unlikely that you'll spend hours sitting in front of your TV listening to online radio. However, each service adds new reason to stay connected to the Xbox ... and adds more purported "value" to that Xbox Live Gold membership.

Continue reading Hands-on: Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and Zune Marketplace on Xbox 360

Hands-on: Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and Zune Marketplace on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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How Xbox Live tenure on your gamercard works

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST

Wait, but we've been using Xbox Live since its inception! Shouldn't our gamercard have a little seven in the upper right corner? According to Microsoft's Major Nelson, not exactly. In fact, the first ever gamertag created ("e," for Xbox Live operations manager Eric Neustadter), won't officially turn seven until tomorrow. "Your Gold Veteran Status counts full years so if you've been a Gold member for 2 years, 11 months and 27 days; your status will display 2 years," says the Major.

In fact, there's a whole handful of little caveats regarding the tiny gamercard number that have been all layed out in plain English over at his blog. Unfortunately for us, regardless of those caveats, we'll likely never be as cool in Nerdland as Eric Neustadter.

[Via Xbox Gaming]

How Xbox Live tenure on your gamercard works originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Xbox 360 Dash Preview invites in the mail [Update]

Xav de Matos — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 21:00:00 EST

Update: According to the comments in this story, the Xbox 360 Dashboard Preview has begun to roll out now.

If you were quick enough on the draw to sign up, you may notice an email from Microsoft in your inbox today inviting you into the new Xbox 360 Dashboard Preview. The public preview -- which opened up for selected press and MVPs earlier last week -- is not fully live just yet, but Microsoft is notifying users if they were accepted into the program. Unaware of what to expect when the new dashboard hits this August? Joystiq has a lengthy guide with a plethora of videos to show you the ropes for the "New New Xbox Experience." Those guys are swell.

PSA: Xbox 360 Dash Preview invites in the mail [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Interview: Last.fm on Xbox Live

Kevin Kelly — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST

Last week we published the first part of our Last.fm on Xbox Live interview, speaking with Christina DeRosa, a general manager for Xbox Live. Today, we present the second part, a conversation with Orlena Yeung, VP of Marketing at Last.fm. After the break, read Yeung's take from the Last.fm side of the deal, as she discusses a range of topics, including why her company is better than Pandora, its social media plans, and how audio scrobbling works in APB.

Gallery: Last.fm (Xbox 360)

Continue reading Interview: Last.fm on Xbox Live

Interview: Last.fm on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Netflix Movie Parties: Some restrictions apply [update]

James Ransom-Wiley — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST

So much for our Friday night plans to give The Iron Giant the ol' MST3K treatment. Just as we were dimming the lights and pulling our headsets close, the fine print struck: "This can't be watched with a party." As it turns out, certain Netflix Instant Watch videos can't be subjected to the new "Movie Parties" feature, included in the next Xbox Live Dashboard update. Pineapple Express and The Legend of Drunken Master are two additional examples of incompatible movies we stumbled across -- there's no way to tell until you select a movie in your queue -- in our preview of the updated Netflix experience (video after the break). One obvious connection is that all three films are licensed under Netflix's "Starz Play" catalog.

You'll remember that when Instant Watch first launched on Xbox 360 there was a licensing issue that blocked Sony's Columbia Pictures content, though this was eventually resolved. We've reached out to Netlfix and Microsoft for comment on the current issue. Now, if you'll excuse us, we've got to find an alternate use for all this popcorn we'd planned to toss about our living room.

Update: A Microsoft spokesperson had this to say: "We are working closely with our partners and studios to deliver Xbox Live Parties for as much content as possible. We offered the Xbox Live Party feature to all content owners, and what's up on the service reflects what the rights holders are comfortable with. We're confident that the community will be pleased with the great selection of Party-enabled content."

Additionally, a Netflix spokesperson further clarified, "We're working with Microsoft and the studios to instantly stream as many movies and TV episodes as possible for Xbox Live parties. Certain content providers don't provide rights for their content to be instantly watched in party mode. We're confident that the community will be pleased with the broad selection of movies and TV episodes that are available to instantly watch in party mode."

Continue reading Xbox Netflix Movie Parties: Some restrictions apply [update]

Xbox Netflix Movie Parties: Some restrictions apply [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live Dashboard update preview goes live

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST

The preview of the upcoming update for the Xbox 360 Dashboard is now live, giving a few lucky Xbox owners -- for now, mostly press outlets -- a chance to place their eyes upon many of the new features, such as Games on Demand, improved Netflix functionality, unlockable Avatar items, purchasable Avatar items, a community-controlled games rating system, and other minor improvements.

We'll have a video preview and some additional image galleries of these new features up later today. Fear not, non-chosen ones -- you'll get your hands on the preview shortly, and everyone will be able to install the update when it goes public on August 11.

Update: We've edited this post to clarify that while the preview is technically live, its access is currently limited to press and a select few "MVPs." Those of you lowly commoners chosen for the preview should be granted access in the next several days.

Gallery: Xbox Live Dashboard Update (2009)

Xbox Live Dashboard update preview goes live originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live Dashboard update arrives Aug. 11

Richard Mitchell — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:10:00 EST

Microsoft has just announced that the upcoming Xbox Dashboard update will be hitting Xbox Live on August 11. The update is set to include many new features, including Games on Demand, improved Netflix performance (along with Movie Parties), Avatar Awardables, Avatar Marketplace, the ability to rate games, new Friends list sorting options and more. The announcement also mentions that previously announced Twitter, Facebook and Last.fm support is slated to arrive this fall.

Also, don't forget that Microsoft is currently accepting entrants for an upcoming preview, allowing many gamers a chance to check out the update before it's available to the general public. If you don't make it, rest assured that Joystiq will be taking the update for a spin and will be posting plenty of coverage.

Xbox Live Dashboard update arrives Aug. 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live update detailed: Games on Demand, Netflix queue/Movie Party, and more

Christopher Grant — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 21:23:00 EST

click for gallery of new Xbox dashboard features

Microsoft just dropped some details on the upcoming Xbox Live Dashboard update which begins rolling out later this summer - first, and perhaps most notably, we'll hit what won't be in this update: Facebook, Twitter, and Last.fm support, along with Zune video and 1080p Instant On video functionality. Those are coming in "future Xbox Live updates" Microsoft assures us. "Updates" plural, eh?

So, what is included? The Games on Demand feature will be available in August, giving you access to digital downloads of full retail games. Check out our video of the feature here. Netflix is being updated in a big way, bringing Movie Parties (kick back in a virtual theater - think "Party System" for your Netflix movies) and the ability to manage your Netflix queue right from the Xbox. They're also touting an "Enhanced Playback Experience" which we presume uses the latest Silverlight "Smooth Streaming" technology (see the demo here).

Also included: The Avatar Marketplace, so you can buy virtual crap for your Avatar; User ratings, so you can attach a star rating to "every game on the Xbox LIVE Games Marketplace" (this thankfully includes Community ... err, Indie Games which have been sorely in need of community moderation!); and more. You can check out the full list after the break, or peruse the gallery of screens Microsoft just dropped on us.

Gallery: Xbox Live Dashboard Update (2009)

Continue reading Xbox Live update detailed: Games on Demand, Netflix queue/Movie Party, and more

Xbox Live update detailed: Games on Demand, Netflix queue/Movie Party, and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 21:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last.fm on XBL: free to gold subscribers, 3 hours per month for others

Kevin Kelly — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:45:00 EST

Microsoft announced at their E3 keynote last month that Last.fm would be coming to Xbox Live. We're working on an interview with key players at both Last.fm and Microsoft to bring you more details about the collaboration soon. However, we can share one tidbit: today we spoke with Christina DeRosa, a general manager for XBL, and she let us know who the service will be available to.

"Silver users will be able access what we're considering a trial period of three hours a month, which comes with video advertising. Gold users will have unlimited ad-supported access, so they can use it 24 hours a day. There will also be a premium offering on a subscription basis from Last.fm, that will be commercial free and will also have more sophisticated personalization features, like Loved Tracks."

Last.fm's subscription prices are currently $3.00 US (€3 EU or £3 GBP) per month, so you'll have to shell out an additional $36 a year if you want to avoid the ads and have full access to their service. You'll also need a Last.fm account, in case you haven't set one up already. Luckily, that part is free.

Gallery: Last.fm (Xbox 360)

Last.fm on XBL: free to gold subscribers, 3 hours per month for others originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Major Nelson: Xbox 360 guide faster after next update

Justin McElroy — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:45:00 EST

Oh, you thought NXE was the last dashboard update you'd be able to sink you mitts into? No dice. Xbox Live spokesman Major Nelson said on his show this week that the next update for the 360 would increase the speed of the guide. "Whatever we call it (and it's not going to be called the NNXE), but whatever the next version of the dashboard is called, it's better with a lot of very cool new features," he said. "That update will be out later this year."

We haven't talked about this sort of thing in a while, so we're curious: What updates would you still like to see to the dashboard?

[Via CVG]

Major Nelson: Xbox 360 guide faster after next update originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Job listing suggests Microsoft working on 300K-player game

Majed Athab — Sat, 30 May 2009 05:00:00 EST

A job listing found on both Gamasutra and Microsoft's careers website is seeking out an engineer to work on a "game" that will support up to "300,000 players in real-time." The job ad states that Microsoft is working on "building an extremely high performance system to extend console games to the server in new ways" and that it's "creating a completely new set of web services" for Xbox Live and Xbox.com integration.

It sounds to us like Microsoft is planning to overhaul the Dashboard and Xbox Live service and combine it with an MMO-like system (given the 300K-player support). Or, it could be building a separate virtual world interface like Sony's PlayStation Home. What do you think Microsoft could be working on?

[Via CVG]

Job listing suggests Microsoft working on 300K-player game originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 May 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mysterious dash update released. It's a mystery

Dustin Burg — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: News

A handful of loyal X3F fanboys just sent word (via carrier pigeon, no less) that a new Xbox 360 dashboard update has just been released. The update installs the new dashboard version 2.0.7363.0 (replacing the old 2.0.7357.0 version) and has been slowly releasing across all consoles connected to Xbox Live. Here at Fanboy Towers, we have yet to be prompted to download the new update. We are sad.

So, what new bells and whistles does the new dash update bring? Well ... we aren't really sure and nobody at Microsoft has announced the update's release. Those who have received it haven't been able to find anything new, so we're speculating that it's one of those behind the scenes / no new features dash upgrades. We'll keep you updated on the update once we're updated.

[Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]

Mysterious dash update released. It's a mystery originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dashboard ad: New Xbox Experience coming in November [update]

Justin McElroy — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:50:00 EST

Filed under: Microsoft Xbox 360

As good as Microsoft may be at keeping secrets, the irascible dashboard just can't seem to keep its e-mouth shut. Reader Dusty just learned this first hand when a dashboard ad for an upcoming Rock Band 2 event proclaimed "Check out the New Xbox Experience coming in November!"

Now, the common man would think "Hey, I bet the New Xbox Experience is coming in November." But we savvy bloggers have learned that, often as not, the dashboard is just making crap up. We'll do a bit of digging and see what we can find.

[Update: Just got this from Microsoft: We're happy to see the excitement around the New Xbox Experience, but we haven't announced a specific release date. The New Xbox Experience will be released before the end of the year, and we will have more details soon!]

Gallery: New Xbox Experience

Dashboard ad: New Xbox Experience coming in November [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Creating an Xbox 360 Avatar

Ludwig Kietzmann — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:45:00 EST

Filed under: Microsoft Xbox 360

Xbox Live's Major Nelson has posted a new video, showing just how we'll go about creating tiny, polygonal and considerably more handsome versions of ourselves when the New Xbox Experience (that's fancy for "dashboard update") arrives this Fall. If you've been wondering how you'll outfit your Avatar with virtua-threads or which button elicits a burp (yes, really), peer past the break.

Of course, if you're the impatient type and just want to get back to your space mareenz, you can skip the whole process by simply selecting a random Avatar. Just don't blame us if you wind up as Shane Kim.

Gallery: New Xbox Experience

Continue reading Video: Creating an Xbox 360 Avatar

Video: Creating an Xbox 360 Avatar originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Xbox Experience: 'Games Played' changes detailed

Randy Nelson — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Microsoft Xbox 360

click to enlarge

Microsoft's own Gamerscore Blog is kicking off what it hopes will be a weekly series of New Xbox Experience primers leading up to the new dash's "late fall" release. For the first installment, the crew chose to focus on the newly revamped Games Played tracker, and what exactly makes it worthy of being part of a new experience.

As it's explained, selecting your Gamercard now displays a series of subsequent Games Played "slides" behind it, which you can fan through. The first card focuses on every game you've ever fired up on your console. It displays your current Gamerscore and the maximum possible Gamerscore you could hope to earn by unlocking every Achievement in every game you've played. Similarly, it displays the current number of Achievements you've unlocked out of the total number available in all the games you've played.

Subsequent slides focus specifically on single games, with similar Gamerscore and Achievement tallies just for them. Your most recent Achievements in each game are also displayed. The Gamerscore team says that if you've played 500 games, there will be 500 individual Games Played slides; let's hope there's an equally clever system for quickly sorting through them all.

Gallery: New Xbox Experience

New Xbox Experience: 'Games Played' changes detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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