Microsoft to release three versions of Xbox 2 (Legit Source)

[Nights]

Microsoft to release three versions of Xbox 2

One of them will be like a PC, shock

A SLIDE from a non disclosure agreement (NDA) presentation seen by the INQ points towards Microsoft launching three versions of the Xbox 2, one of which is a fully functioning PC.
The presentation, understood to have been given to analysts and market researchers in the UK earlier this year, plots a timeline for the introduction of the systems. Xbox Next and Xbox Next HD are planned for Autumn 2005, whereas the Xbox Next PC is pencilled in for Autumn 2006.

The standard Xbox Next will not include a hard drive, which will allow Microsoft to cut costs on this basic unit. Xbox Next HD, as you might imagine, does include a hard drive and will offer increased functionality based on this. Xbox Next PC is, according to the presentation, an entry-level PC that runs Windows and all standard PC software. It also includes CD Burner, Wireless keyboard, mouse and controller and will work best connected to a high-definition TV or PC monitor. Media Center functionality - like movies, music and photos - is also included. The device will also play most available PC games.

System outline specifications note that internet browsing and instant messaging would be key applications, and that the entire unit will be smaller than the current Xbox, although it will not be possible to upgrade the shipping memory or processor.

The year-long gap between the mooted introductions of the two standard Xboxes before the Xbox Next PC is an interesting decision, which suggests that Microsoft realises the time that the market needs to acclimatise to TV media functionality. Since the Vole expects to ship Xbox Next before the Sony PlayStation 3, two versions of the console allow it to get the first wave out before PS3, but to also spoil the launch of Sony's flagship by concurrently announcing the PC version.

Source: The Inquirer (http://www.theinquirer.net/?article=19615)

[Bloodman]

Yes but how much will it COST? I'm planning to get a xbox 2 and revolution. I will most likly get the one without the hard drive unless the one with the hard drive is less than $300.

[Nights]

I'll probably get the one with the hardrive if it'll be compatible with Xbox games.

Then again there is other reasons to own it.

[Bloodman]

well im getting it for any future halo games and others. I really hope it's compatible with the current xbox games.

Waitl, will the xbox2 w/o the hard drive still be able to do those things the one with the hard drive (not the computer compatible one) can do (messaging, etc.)?

[Serene Samus]

It should be compatible with X-box games.

[Shayde]

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
The Inquirer?!
Come on Nights....

[Viper]

Big, big mistake. Sony is supposedly doing it too.

Way to divide your consumers.

[speed stick]

I don't think this is the right thing to do. Making multiple consoles.....like common, make they all the same and keep them the same. Thats what I think anyway.

[Sendok]

all i can say is im not a fan of this marketing.

The whole point of a console compared to PC gaming is that devs know that everyone uses the same setup, so they don't have to worry about certian things.

[dork]

bleh. all these multi media gimmicks are destroying console gaming. it's so unappealing. that's why i'm sticking to nintenzo. :dur:

[Nights]

I hope it's the wrong thing to do... I want the PS3 to be last this time...

[HereticPB]

Good way to spread themselves thin. Brilliant MS Brilliant.

[Greg]

Meh as long as the games play the same on all the systems I'm cool with it.

[Viper]

Meh as long as the games play the same on all the systems I'm cool with it.
That do be the problem. Some games might take advantage of the harddrive of the advanced model. Then what about the gamers who don't own that model and are stuck with either not being able to play or a seriously inferior version of the game.

On the flip side, buy the advanced model and have no developer take advantage of it....you'd feel ripped off.

[speed stick]

^You said it perfectly Viper. I won't want to invest my money in that console (not that I would anyway) if that were to happen.

[Greg]

Yeah if games play differntly on the different version of the consols then if I do get a next gen consol it will be nintendo's consol.

[Shayde]

So wait, am I missing something?
The Inquirer is a credible source...?

[Viper]

There are two Inquierers. This sin't the tabloid. Plus, I've seen it in most other major sites already.

[Blaksmoke]

That do be the problem. Some games might take advantage of the harddrive of the advanced model. Then what about the gamers who don't own that model and are stuck with either not being able to play or a seriously inferior version of the game.

On the flip side, buy the advanced model and have no developer take advantage of it....you'd feel ripped off.

I don't know. It's such an obvious problem; Microsoft has to have something up it's sleeve.

[Viper]

Oddly enough, Sony is doing it too.

Splitting the haves and have nots has never worked.

[Blaksmoke]

Yeah, which is why there has to be something else involved that we don't know of yet. Unless everyone's gone insane, which really wouldn't surprise me.

[Shayde]

There are two Inquierers. This sin't the tabloid. Plus, I've seen it in most other major sites already.

Oh, my bad, I thought they were affiliated or something. My bad Nights...

[Bloodman]

I think sony may come out dead last next gen. If nintendo's new revolutionary idea is carried out right along with the hard drive a sort of x-box live.

You know i think the concle market would be best if Microsoft and Nintendo joined hands.I see Sony as something that stands in the way and is leading everything into disaster. Sony has got the appele that brings in main streamers and casuals. They constantly put dvd and other useless crap.

Nintendo: Hello microsoft! I come to you with a buisness propasal to join our companies. Why, with your incredible appeal to consumers and acces to awsome technology and our innovation and very creative departments, i believe that we can blow sony out of the water and have a promising relation in future buisness

Microsoft: That sounds like a splended idea! But one question remains, who will run this all?

Nintendo: We both run it. Nobody owns anyone, thats the good part and we both share profits!

Microsoft: Consider now the first moment of our lasting partnership!

Then later on...

Sony: :(

[peasantlover]

Shayde, you are thinking of the "Enquirer"..