[img]http://www.snackbar-games.com/images/news/2007/04/xbox360_qwerty.jpg[/img]

Microsoft has confirmed the [url=http://www.snackbar-games.com/n2539.html]earlier rumored text input device[/url] for the Xbox 360 by announcing the coming launch of console’s Windows Live Messenger service, which boasts the ability to connect console, PC, and Windows Mobile gamers under one unified chat service.

Set to debut on May 7 with the Xbox 360 spring update, the patch will provide Xbox 360 users worldwide with access to Windows Live Messenger features, including text messaging and chatting over Windows Live Messenger with up to six people on their contact list at one time, while playing games, listening to music or watching movies.

According to Microsoft, existing relationships on Windows Live Messenger and Xbox Live will be unified on the Xbox 360, and users will see at a glance if their existing friends on Windows Live Messenger have Gamertags.

In addition, Microsoft plans to release the earlier rumored QWERTY text-input device this summer, which will plug directly into the Xbox 360 controller. Prior to this device’s release, and beginning the week of May 7, Xbox 360 users will be able to text message and chat using the virtual keyboard accessible on Xbox 360 or by connecting a USB keyboard to the console.

[b]Other enhancements expected the upcoming spring update include:[/b]

– A richer Achievement notification pop-up will showcase the name of the unlocked Achievement and the gamerscore value without needing to leave the game to check the Achievements list.

– Enhanced family settings features for Xbox Live communications enable different defaults for video chat and voice chat.

– A new Xbox Live Marketplace blade lets Xbox Live members access the content they seek A