Microsoft Sets Eyes On Xbox Live Games for Mobile Phones

Microsoft wanting to generate more synergy between Xbox Live and Windows Mobile-enabled devices isn't necessarily big news, but details posted in a new job opening name a few ways they want to put Xbox Live access on phones. Avatars, social media and "multi-screen experiences" will all be included in the new employee's projects, in addition to overseeing Xbox Live-linked games.

"We need a Principle Program Manager who can help drive the platform and bring Xbox LIVE enabled games to Windows Mobile," says the job listing from Microsoft. "This person will focus specifically on what makes gaming experiences "LIVE Enabled" through aspects such as avatar integration, social interactions, and multi-screen experiences."

If you've got the negotiating skills and ideal post-graduate education Microsoft describes throughout the rest of the post, this may be a great opportunity. At the very least, it looks like Microsoft is catching on to something the PS3 and PSP and even the GameCube and GBA picked up on, which is opening up communication lines between consoles and handheld devices. Beyond that, however, the new principal program manager looks like he or she will be responsible for broadening the scope of XBL beyond Xboxes alone and making the network relevant to games on other platforms.

Let that last thought soak in for a second. If Windows Mobile phones start using games that are just as much a part of XBL as "Halo 3" and "Modern Warfare 2," the whole Xbox Live network could be due for a name change in a few years.

What do you think of Microsoft's XBL plans as they're described in the new job posting? What would you like to be able to do with XBL on mobile phones? Share your reactions in the comment section below.

Tags microsoft, xbox live