Sony’s PlayStation 3 console already has an internet browser built into its operating system, and now sources close to Microsoft are suggesting that the company will be looking to integrate their Internet Explorer 9 web browser into their Xbox360 gaming console.
It has been rumoured that the browser will have the ability to be controlled with Microsoft’s Kinect peripheral and that the company is currently testing a modified version of Internet Explorer 9. If the rumours are correct, it will optimised for voice and motion controls, but navigation with a standard Xbox controller will still be possible.
“In addition to adding another feature to Xbox Live, the inclusion of a web browser will create a closer resemblance between the company’s console experience and Windows 8, which could be a useful tool to increase adoption for the upcoming PC and tablet operating system,” wrote gaming website IGN.
With the latest software update for the Xbox360, Microsoft did include their Bing! search bar, but that is only to search for media already present on the Xbox’s hard drive.
No time-frame has been given for a launch or an announcement, but speculation is rife that Microsoft will make the much-awaited announcement at this year’s E3 conference in Los Angeles.
Charlie Fripp – Consumer Tech editor
