Xbox partners with social networking Web sites

Xbox LIVE is updating with a convergence mentality, combining their already popular service with massively popular social networking sites Facebook and Twitter.In 2008, Microsoft reported Xbox Live had 17 million users and over half of that had gold memberships. On the Xbox LIVE Marketplace, over $1 billion has been spent since 2005.

"We are always asking ourselves how to make the TV more social," said John Schappert, corporate vice president of Interactive Entertainment LIVE, Software and Studios at Microsoft through a release on Xbox.com.

At the E3 Expo 2009, Microsoft announced partnerships with social networking giants Facebook and Twitter. After months of speculation, Xbox LIVE has finally unveiled how they incorporated Facebook and Twitter to select members of a preview program.

Twitter functions as it regularly would with only a few minor things removed. Users can't check out TwitPics and can't check follow/following lists. Users can still search, check trending topics, send direct messages, choose to follow users and tweet about whatever they want.

Facebook's functionality isn't as true to form. Applications can't be played or even looked at on Xbox LIVE, which means YSU-favorite Farmville is unavailable through the service. You can still check friends' status updates and update your own. You can look at friends' pictures regularly or in a full screen slideshow, which can help the viewing of smaller photos. You can also find friends on your Xbox LIVE buddy list and add them on Facebook.

On Xbox LIVE both are much more colorful and user friendly than they are on the Web, complete with big buttons that make navigation easy. Obviously updating your status on either Facebook or Twitter or typing anything in can be difficult. However, Xbox allows the use of USB keyboards if you plug them right into the ports on the Xbox. Xbox also released a messenger kit, a small cell phone sized keyboard that plugs right into your controller that retails for $29.99.

"By bringing Twitter, Facebook and Last.fm to Xbox 360, we're not only extending the walls of your living room beyond your home to your friends all over the world, we're creating the definitive social network, uniting more than 300 million people to share thoughts on music, play games and tweet," Schappert said.

Currently, only those 18 and older can use Facebook or Twitter. However, Xbox LIVE Director of Programming Larry Hryb has reported on his Website that those 13 to 17 will be able to use the feature with parental permission.

In addition to Facebook and Twitter, Xbox has added Last.fm. With Last.fm users can listen to their favorite bands complete with video slideshows to enhance the listening experience. But to receive no ads, the ability to play your beloved tracks on their own station, exclusive access to new features and more users will have to play $3 a month. $36 more a year is a hard sell for gamers already paying $50 for the Xbox LIVE service.

The update's rumored release date for all users is Nov. 17.