Microsoft would be introducing a new XBOX 360 controller this winter which will feature an adjustable directional control pad (D pad). This controller was revealed by XBOX live programming director Larry Hryb on his blog on Tuesday. Larry Hryb, most commonly known by his gamer tag “Major Nelson”, demonstrated how the D Pad exactly works.  Read more...

Permalink: Microsoft to introduce new XBOX 360 Controller with an Adjustable D Pad

According to Joystiq , Microsoft is sending out invitations to some of its Microsoft Connect users to join “Xbox Live and Kinect Beta Program” as they plan to begin it soon. Several users have received the invitation via Microsoft Connect, a service which is used to gather customer feedback on products in testing. The participants of the program will be provided opportunity to see pre-released software and give their feedback to Microsoft.  Read more...

Permalink: Microsoft looking to start Xbox LIVE and Kinect Beta Program

Microsoft have revealed the technology used in their upcoming motion based gaming device Kinect ( previously called Project Natal ) for Xbox 360. The secret was finally revealed by a patent application filled by Microsoft with the US patent and trademark office.  Read more...

Permalink: Microsoft reveals Xbox Kinect technology

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless N Network adapter is now available for purchase in USA. Egghead listed the much anticipated wireless network adapter for sale. U.S. based users can get their hands on the new network adapter for $100. This comes as an unofficial announcement for the Xbox 360.  Read more...

Permalink: The new Xbox 360 Wireless N Network adapter now available for $100

Microsoft will releasing a new system update for Xbox 360 this summer. Registrations are underway for participation in the Xbox Live Update Preview Program on Microsoft Connect. You’ll be required to fill a survey form to be considered for the program and selection will be done based on region and connection types. The preview program isn’t available in areas where Xbox live isn’t officially supported. Also keep in mind that if you update your console to the preview program, you won’t be able to remove it.

According to Fudzilla, the new update is expected to include the goodies announced at E3, such as Facebook, Twitter and Last.fm integration as well as Zune Video support. Netflix will also be getting an overhaul with updates such as Movie Parties, Queue Management, Enhanced Playback technology to address bandwidth issues, and more advanced friends info. Avatar Market place will also be available with the option of premium and branded items. Awarded items will also be available depending on game titles. Games on Demand was demoed at E3 as well, which will be digital distribution of Xbox 360 games along with their manuals. A lot of changes and bug fixes in the Xbox Dashboard will also be made:  Read more...

Permalink: Xbox Live Update Preview Program starts; Lots of new features in the Xbox 360 Update this Summer

Just when you thought Microsoft was ‘uncool’ and jobs are as rare as a pink elephant, they step up and create a new social networking recruiting website called Microsoft Entertainment Jobs. If you’ve always wanted to work on the Xbox, Zune, Media Center or other entertainment products and divisions at Microsoft, this is the website to be at. As Todd Bishop pointed out some of the profile features at the website.

The recruiters’ profile pages feature their pictures, a favorite video, the available positions for which they’re recruiting, and links to their profiles or feeds on such sites as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. The Microsoft site also has a built-in feature that people can use to tell their friends about available jobs using social-networking sites and other online tools.

Microsoft has actually aimed to provide a cool, friendly and easy to reach image with M.E.J. Even though candidates might not find jobs right away, it’ll keep them connected with each other and give them a chance to interact with the recruiters. It also gives Microsoft a chance to have an additional talent pool available at their service for whenever they need it. This website isn’t just the only way through which Microsoft is trying to give a positive vibe, despite the economic crisis.  Read more...

Permalink: Get a career in connected entertainment at Microsoft