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Microsoft releases Xbox One SmartGlass app

For Windows Phones.

Xbox One's official companion app is now available to download for Windows Phone owners.

The free 13MB popped up today on the Windows Phone store.

iOS and Android versions are on the way, although just have a vague "holiday" release window.

The companion app mirrors much of the functionality already available to Xbox 360 owners. You can pair your smartphone or tablet to your console and control its menus, message friends using the app's touchscreen keyboard and launch apps or games.

It also serves as a handy way to check friend activity and Achievement progress at any time, plus watch gameplay clips recorded via Upload.

Apps, games and other items can also be pinned for easy access when you get back to your console.

The app's launch comes just three days ahead of the Xbox One's official release - at midnight this Thursday night in the UK and 12 other countries.

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