Xbox 720 brings Skype integration

Microsoft’s next generation Xbox console will bring support for the Microsoft owned internet calling service Skype. This information was revealed after a Microsoft job advert gave away the details about the plans. Microsoft is looking for someone to help work on a UI and prototype design in London for Skype integration to the next generation Xbox.

The job description is listed as:

“help design an integrated Skype platform that’s pervasive within the Xbox console and ecosystem.”

The job requires previous experience with Flash, HTML, and CSS, as well as previous work across multiple devices, including desktop, mobile, tablet, TV and consoles, while in-depth knowledge of the Xbox and other entertainment platforms is desirable. The applicant will report to the Head of Design for Xbox & Consumer Electronics and will work with the Xbox team in Redmond, Washington.

“The team you’ll join is responsible for Skype in the living room (broadly the home), across various devices but with a focus on the large screen and the next generation of Xbox, Naturally there’s a healthy overlap with other teams with the design organization which makes the job all the more exciting. As well as being useful and universal, we want the experience to be wonderful; look beautiful and work beautifully.”

The Microsoft acquisition of Skype took place last year for $8.5 billion and Microsoft intends to put this acquisition to good use by integrating Skype into as many of its products as possible, including the Next Xbox, Microsoft Office and Outlook.

It is not known how Skype will be integrated, but it could replace the integrated Xbox Live communication system.

Source