The ongoing Sony debacle is likely to change a few things. Obviously, it's going to force online network providers (Sony, Microsoft) to ensure that their security is actually capable of keeping out nefarious hackers. Secondly, there's a good chance that it's changed the way you look at storing your sensitive information on one of those services. Personally, I'm a bit wary of typing my credit card info into any game network's database. With that in mind, Microsoft has given Xbox users another – possibly safer – way to purchase games and other Xbox digital products online.
Starting right now, you can add the online payment service PayPal to your Xbox 360 account. The first thing you'll need to do is sign up for a PayPal account, if you don't already have one. Then, it's just a matter of inputting the required information, as listed on Major Nelson's blog.
"It's pretty easy and just like adding a credit card to your account. Sign in to Xbox.com and head to the account summary page," the blog reads, "From there choose 'Manage Payment Options' (from the left navigation menu) then click 'Add a new PayPal Account.' Follow the instructions and you’ll be set up in no time."
Of course it's not exactly like adding a credit card, because you'll have an added level of security thanks to PayPal.
In other big Microsoft news, the company has purchased voice-over-IP company Skype for "8.5 million dollars cash." You're probably wondering how this will affect gaming, and well, the service will apparently integrate into Kinect.
"Skype will support Microsoft devices like Xbox and Kinect, Windows Phone and a wide array of Windows devices," the press release read, "Microsoft will connect Skype users with Lync, Outlook, Xbox Live and other communities."
Kinect users can currently video chat with other Kinect owners via Xbox Live, but I'm assuming this means you'll now be able to use the device to speak with anyone who uses Skype.