It allows users to control games on the touchscreen devices and can show extra information about progress.
It also lets the handhelds act as controllers for the firm's Internet Explorer web browser, which will launch on the console later this year.
The move poses a challenge to Nintendo's Wii U Game Pad.
While the Japanese company's product is specifically designed to enhance the experience of using its next-generation console, Microsoft is offering users a way to extend the functionality of its existing games machines via third-party devices they may already have.
"Xbox SmartGlass works with all the devices that you already own: the TV you already own, the phone you already own and the tablet you already own," said Marc Whitten, head of Microsoft's Xbox Live division.
Microsoft Xbox SmartGlass links consoles with tablets/smartphones
Posted on Tuesday, June 05 2012 @ 22:57 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck