Xbox 360 to Receive Internet Explorer and Better Kinect Voice Search

Microsoft revealed one new feature, in the form of Internet Explorer for the Xbox 360, and a big improvement to an existing one, namely a better version of the Bing voice search thanks to the Kinect sensor.

The Xbox 360 has been around for quite some time but, ever since its original release in 2006, many owners complained about the lack of a web browser.

With a future update, however, Microsoft has confirmed at E3 2012 that it will finally bring Internet Explorer to the Xbox 360 and turn into a really impressive experience by allowing owners to interact using not just the regular controller but also the Kinect sensor or compatible smartphones and tablets.

“Explore the Web on your TV in an amazing way with Kinect and Internet Explorer for Xbox. Use your voice to explore your favorite sites with ease on the biggest screen in the house. Even use your phone or tablet to type and control your experience,” Microsoft added.

Internet Explorer will be launched for the Xbox 360 later this year in all markets that have Xbox Live access.

Later this year, Microsoft is also going to improve the voice control and search options in the console, allowing owners to use the Kinect sensor for more specific voice queries and offering the service in more countries.

“Later this year, Kinect voice control and search will become available to an additional 12 countries and six languages, for a total of 15 countries and seven languages, with full voice control and search support,” Microsoft stated.

What’s more, Xbox 360 users will soon be able to search for specific genres of content, whether they’re movies, songs or games.

“In addition, in some countries and languages, you will be able to search for content genres such as comedy, drama and action, and also will be able to use your voice to search user-generated content on YouTube.”

Expect to hear more about these new features for the Xbox 360 later this year.