Examiner
Microsoft insider Paul Thurrott previously claimed that the operating system for the next Xbox (aka Xbox 720) will be based on Windows 8. He took it a step further Tuesday by stating that the next-gen console will come with the enhancements currently planned for the Windows 8.1 update, code-named "Blue."
"Blue" is an update for both Windows 8 and Windows RT that is based on customer feedback of the new operating system since it was released last fall according to Microsoft executive Tami Reller. This is rumored to include the return of the Start button but it is what Thurrott notes about the next Xbox that should perk up gamer's ears.
When Reller says "new device types," she is not just referring to new tablets for Windows 8 but also to the next Xbox according to the tech expert. "I suspect some of the updates in that release are designed for that console," he says.
The software and console maker is attempting to turn its entire suite of products for the PC, tablets, smartphones and consoles into one large ecosystem. Keeping these devices on the same relative platform will ensure cross-compatibility which is something that was introduced with the Xbox 360 via apps like SmartGlass.
Microsoft will make the full reveal for the next Xbox during an event on May 21.
http://www.examiner.com/article/report-next-xbox-os-will-include-windows-8-1-blue-enhancements
