In June 2012, Microsoft officially announced Xbox SmartGlass during its E3 2012 press event. Part of its presentation for the "second screen" app service was showing off how it would work while watching HBO"s hit fantasy TV series Game of Thrones. Today, Microsoft announced that the Game of Thrones Xbox SmartGlass app will finally be released this week just ahead of the show"s season three premiere on Sunday.
Microsoft"s Major Nelson website has the details:
As the story unfolds on your TV, Xbox SmartGlass allows you to use your tablet as a companion guide to unlock exclusive content – including interactive maps, detailed character guides, cast and crew commentaries, behind-the-scenes extras and more – right at your fingertips. Now, you can control your Game of Thrones viewing experience like never before.
The Game of Thrones Xbox SmartGlass will be based in the US only and support Windows 8 tablets as well as Apple"s iPad (sorry, Android and Windows Phone owners).
Microsoft also announced that a number of new streaming video services will be added next week for Xbox 360 owners in the US. Baseball fans awaiting the start of the 2013 season in a few days will be able to download MLB.TV Refresh, which will offer over 1,430 Major League Baseball games, either live or on demand, along with other features. Microsoft states:
The updated MLB.TV includes a full view of game progress with base-runners and pitch-count, all without leaving the game you’re watching. Also, it allows you to get a quick view of the day’s MLB action with game progress including scores, base-runners and upcoming games. The refreshed app is more personalized and once you pick your favorite teams, the app will instantly start up with what you care about most – live games, clips and highlights, and game recaps of your favorite teams.
Other streaming video apps coming this week include IndieFlix (independent movies), Revision 3 (the Internet-based video network), PopcornFlix (free streaming movies) and Toys “R” Us Movies (kids and family movies for rent or purchase)
Source: Major Nelson | Image via Microsoft