Microsoft's Xbox empire was built on the backs of two things: Halo and Xbox Live. Since the service launched in 2002, the company has sifted through several iterations and thrown out a handful of interface designs. Live has come a long way, but it's not done yet.
With its next-generation Xbox, Microsoft is set to infuse Skype functionality into its video chat feature, effectively 'replacing Xbox Live chat,' according to a CVG report (via GameSpot).
The source tells the site that Microsoft is in the process of "consolidating all their communications technology [around Skype]...You might jump to the conclusion that we'll see asynchronous voice and video messages in the next-gen Xbox Live."
CVG dug up a job posting for Skype's UK offices, calling for a user interface designer to work on integrating Skype into the next Xbox and expanding its functionality in the living room. The popular video service's involvement in Microsoft's console strategy is hardly a well-kept secret.
So far, sources have been tight lipped about the upcoming Xbox, leaving the speculation to analysts and curious gamers. Analyst Colin Sebastian of Rober W. Baird recently told Game Informer that the Redmond-based company would likely reveal its new Xbox at a standalone event by the end of March, and cost between $350 and $400 when it eventually launches. Most industry veterans expect the 'Xbox 720' to launch in Fall of 2013 alongside the Playstation 4. Although official details remain scarce, one thing is clear: expect a massive overhaul of Xbox Live soon.
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