Microsoft Releases Xbox SmartGlass App for Android

Xbox SmartGlass for Android is now available, but you'll need a smartphone with 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich" or later.

On Friday Microsoft officially launched Xbox SmartGlass for Android, as seen here on Google Play. The app requires Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich" or later, and a device with a WVGA screen resolution or higher. It's unsurprisingly not compatible with Google's own Nexus 7 tablet (which currently resides at 4.1.2 "Jelly Bean") at this time.

In using the Xbox SmartGlass app, Android device owners can navigate their Xbox 360 console with merely a swipe and a tap on their device's screen. Users can even access the virtual keyboard to type messages to the entertainment system. Even more, after consumers update their console with Internet Explorer, they can use their smartphone to zoom in and out of web pages and images, and type in URLs and search queries.

The new Xbox Smartglass app also lets Android device owners play, pause, fast forward, rewind, and stop videos and music on the Xbox 360. Additional functions include searching the Xbox catalog for music, video and games, track and compare achievements, change the 3D avatar, message Xbox friends and more.

"Xbox SmartGlass lets your phone work with your Xbox 360 console to bring rich, interactive experiences and unique content about what you’re watching or playing, right to the device that’s already in your hand," the listing reads. "Interact with your favorite TV shows, movies, music, sports, and games, and bring remote control to a whole new level."

So far user reviews are overall positive although several are complaining that the app isn't available on the Nexus 7 (cough). "Finally an app I can actually use WITH my Xbox!!! Smooth interface, simple gestures, and very easy to use. I'm actually impressed with Microsoft on this one," one reviewer wrote.

To download and install Xbox Smartglass on your Android 4.0 device, head over to Google Play here. Don't forget: you need to upgrade the Xbox 360 first.

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