Microsoft used its time alongside the Nokia Lumia phone unveiling to show unique tie-ins between Windows Phone​ and the Xbox 360. Xbox Companion lets users steer video on the console, such as from the Video Marketplace. It gives users visual thumbnails for what’s available as well as related content.
Like most smartphone remotes, it works over Wi-Fi to talk to an Xbox on the same network. Microsoft promises that it should still have “virtually instantaneous” response.
The previously revealed Kinectimals Windows Phone port was also on hand and showed a concept that Microsoft refers to as “Kinectivity,” where the phone app can take advantage of the Xbox 360 add-on’s camera to interact. Gamers who want to bring over a pet they’ve raised on the phone can put the screen up to the Kinect and have it automatically detect the pet’s traits to keep playing on the much larger screen.
Xbox Companion will be free. Microsoft hasn’t said how much Kinectimals will cost.
