Microsoft has launched the Xbox party chat application, which as the name implies will permit constant communication among gamers and will serve an extension of the Xbox Live.
Xbox users who feel the need to keep in touch with fellow gamers can now do so outside of the Xbox Live realm. They only need to get the Xbox app that Microsoft had earlier provided in beta version and is now on official release build via Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
"Everything you love about Xbox SmartGlass, is now in the Xbox app, and much more! No matter where you play games — whether it's your Xbox One, Windows 10 PC, or Phone — the Xbox app is the best way to stay connected to your gaming community," Microsoft stated on the Play Store page of the application.
The party chat app is designed to simplify the gaming experience of Xbox users and keep them "connected to the games and gamers that matter most."
"The Xbox app brings together your friends, games, and accomplishments from across your devices. Stay connected to your gaming community on the go, control your Xbox One from the app, and buy new games from the store," the company said in explaining the basic features of the app for iOS devices.
Xbox Beyond The Living Room
To be clear, the Xbox app is not about mobile or remote gaming per se. The chief use is group or party conversations, which a gamer could find useful when the need arises to leave an Xbox gaming session for a time. With the app, one can be updated of what's happening in real time. The best part is the Xbox app provides chatting features in both voice and text modes.
Microsoft said that for voice messaging to be optimal, it is highly recommended to pair a device with a headset that is equipped with a microphone.
At best, the new Xbox app affords a community feel that fans of the gaming platform can readily enjoy inside and outside of a game session. The general functions and features easily remind of the favorite free chatting service by gamers — Discord.
Xbox vs PS4
Microsoft's Xbox app is certainly a plus over its rival Sony PlayStation 4. While text and voice chatting is available on PS4, the latter can only be enjoyed with the help of third-party applications. It may be true that the same feature is not a premium for everyone, but for a solid gaming group, the ability to connect at all times could be a deal-maker.
