Sources say Microsoft (News - Alert) is planning to bring Internet Explorer 9 to its Xbox 360 gaming console. The newest version of the internet browser is reportedly in development, and is designed especially for use with the Kinect controller, which allows Xbox users to manipulate the game system through motion and voice commands.  

            Typing with a traditional style gaming controller can prove difficult. The best option available now is the Xbox 360 Chat Pad, a controller with a built in keyboard. However, Microsoft is hoping to make navigating the Web even easier with the Kinect controlled browser. It will not be nessescary to own a Kinect in order to use the new Internet Explorer. 

            Xbox users do have access to the internet, however it is limited to a voice activated version of Microsoft's Bing search engine, and results include entertainment content only. In the future a full version of the browser will be be built in, along with the applications, movies, music, television, and social functions already available.    

            This move by Microsoft may be a measure in keeping the company competitive after losing ground in recent years to Mozilla's Firefox browser, and Google's (News - Alert) Chrome browser. An official launch date has not been announced. Further information is expected to be released sometime around the Electronic Entertainment Expo in early June, or shortly after.