Xbox SmartGlass – dual screening using Surface as SatNav
There’s been some discussion in recent years about how many screens we each have and that one holy grail is how we get these screens to work together – TV, PC, phone, tablet – so I thought I’d share this delightful example.
SmartGlass allows me to connect my phone or PC to my Xbox so I can use the second device as a controller for the Xbox or, as you can see in this instance, use the second screen for additional content. Here I have my Surface RT connected with SmartGlass over WiFi to my Xbox (connection is a seamless experience as long as they’re on the same wireless network) and it acts as the SatNav for the game. Not only showing me where I am on a map, but being able to use it as I would the SatNav in my car. Brilliant stuff.
Good to see an example of it in use in a game, i’ve yet to try it with any games so far.
It would be great if something like this is implemented on the next Battlefield game, giving you an overview of the battlefield and any ‘intelligence’ gained from other squads on your team.
As a general, and perhaps less exciting, no gaming use… Smart Glass on Windows Phone or Windows 8 is great for controlling Internet Explorer on the Xbox in your living room when you want to share what you’re browsing with others.
A recent personal example is wedding research, instead of huddling around the same small screen. Great how it just works.
Agreed, SmartGlass is fantastic experience all round. Like you say, great how it just works. Never a hiccup.