Microsoft connects PCs, Xbox with IM
Seattle PI | at | by Mike
Microsoft will further connect the worlds of Windows and Xbox 360 by letting people on computers trade instant messages with those using the company's video-game console.
Microsoft plans to expand its Windows Live Messenger service to the Xbox 360 through a software update early next month. The move creates a new bridge between two of Microsoft's biggest user bases and adds another PC-style function to the game console.
However, for the best experience with the new instant-messaging feature, Xbox 360 users will need to buy a small, QWERTY-style keyboard that will attach to the game controller for thumb typing. That won't be released until summer, and Microsoft isn't yet saying how much it will cost.