Windows 10 For Xbox Adds To 'One Microsoft' Vision

Microsoft had a major presence this week at Germany-based video game conference Gamescom, where it announced a slew of new features for its Xbox One console.

Xbox, which currently runs on Windows 8, will be updated later this year with Microsoft's new Windows 10 OS. The update is a boon to Xbox users, but also another step towards Redmond's "One Microsoft" strategy.

Part of Microsoft's goal for Windows 10 is to deliver a consistent experience to users across PC, tablet, and smartphone devices. This means a single core Windows 10 system connected by one Windows Store and Universal Windows apps.

Xbox will become part of the lineup later this fall, when Microsoft integrates features from Xbox Live and Xbox experiences into the Windows 10 ecosystem. Gamers will receive the upgrade for free through regular system update.

As Microsoft explained earlier this year, the Windows 10 update will bring your gaming activity to a range of devices. The Xbox app will make features like Messages, Games, Friends, Activity Feed, and Achievements available on the PC.

A preview version of Windows 10 for Xbox One will be made available in September. Microsoft will launch the system to all consoles in November, giving developers a couple of months to receive and integrate feedback from its user base. Through Xbox Live, you'll be able to have multiplayer gaming on Windows 10 against other players on Xbox One.

:story: InformationWeek