Redmond (WA) - Microsoft has announced some details about an Xbox Live dashboard update in December, addressing digital download Xbox titles and more social networking functionality.

Though Microsoft did not give specific details, it said next month's Xbox 360 update would enhance the social aspect of the Xbox Live online service.  The software giant said "this type of capability has largely come to be expected from consumers as a means to relate in an online world," referring to the vast communities built in sites like Myspace and Facebook.

One feature that was announced is the ability for users to see their friends list directly from the console's main menu, or "dashboard".  As it stands now, users must go through a handful of menus to see their contacts list.

The firmware update will also bring to life a new feature first announced earlier this month - the ability to purchase original Xbox games as digital downloads.  Halo and Fable will be available from the Xbox Live Marketplace for 1200 Microsoft Points ($15).

The new update is set to go live on December 4.

I'm

Nov 27, 2007 12:30     

First!
MeFirst report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

lest we forget...

Nov 27, 2007 12:39     

Those of us who've kept up with the rumor mill are hoping for the unannounced feature that there's been rumblings of on the Internet: DivX playback. http://digg.com/xbox_360/DivX_Support_Coming_to_Xbox_360
Ben report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

Fable in $9.99 at BestBuy

Nov 27, 2007 15:39     

Fable, new and unopened; $9.99 for the physical disc at BestBuy. M$ needs to work on their pricing structures.
J report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

Real Trojan Horse

Nov 27, 2007 17:41     

Microsoft is often branded as being reactive to innovation, but that's certianly not the case with the concept of Xbox Live. The experience and foundation os that service was revolutionary for the console market, and it jsut keeps getting better...They need to shift to integrating the social networking features onto the PC platform, which will ballon functionality. I guess their a method to Microsoft madness (chumping with Facebook)...it would be great to have a fully integrate Facebook page with Live.

Hiruu report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

Why Download Old Xbox Games?

Nov 27, 2007 21:51     

There's two problems with downloading Xbox games. 1. They are big files and will fill up that HD fast. 2. Most games can be purchased used for less.
noah report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

No one cares about other "Friends Lists", LAME!

Nov 28, 2007 07:55     

Because im sure everyone in the world has been eagerly waiting to browse Friend Lists',, Lame update. Oh and another tool to buy / download overpriced stuff from Microsoft on there puny hard drives (If you even got one) forced onto my system along with more sales ads convoluting my Menus. The last 10 XBOX games I have bought where all only $4.99..Thanks Microsoft for allowing me to buy overpriced games, whew! what an update.

Michael report abuse vote down vote up Votes: -1