First came the HTC One now we have the Xbox One after Microsoft launched a new console overnight that will also deliver TV content and better Kinect and Skype integration.
Codenamed Durango during its development Microsoft is moving to take on Apple, Google and Foxtel by being able to deliver content services spanning movies, gaming and music direct to their new console.
Billed as an all-in-one system for the living room, the new console is able to switch between media sources quickly using voice commands.
A new interface uses Kinect voice commands as well as gestures to navigate the Metro-style menu. Notifications found in Windows 8 also appear on the screen.
A new Xbox One Guide reveals television listings, along with options for “Trending” programs, favourite shows, and saved “My Channels,” with the guide also showing content available on-demand as well as on broadcast channels.
It is not known whether these services will be available in the Australian console.
Under the bonnet the new console has 5 billion transistors on its 8-core CPU, and 8GB of RAM. It also has a small A 500GB hard disk and a Blu-ray drive along with HDMI-in and out, USB 3.0, and Wi-Fi with Wi-Fi Direct.
On the front is an improved Kinect sensor with a 1080p wide-angle camera that is able to read a heartbeat, note shifts in weight, and also includes improved joint detection. The new controller is claimed to have over 40 changes to its design, including dynamic impulse triggers with feedback, and a Wi-Fi Direct radio stack. SmartGlass is also retained in the Xbox One.
Microsoft claims that the new Xbox One architecture, delivers three operating systems in one. The Xbox OS deals with the gaming side, the second is the Windows kernel, and a third joins the two sides, allowing for quick switching between the two.
Xbox Live has been reworked specially for the Xbox One. Using the same subscription as currently offered, the service will jump from 15,000 servers being used currently to over 300,000 later this year. A dedicated game DVR will record gameplay footage for later sharing, as well as improved multiplayer matchmaking and queuing, including the option to play another title while waiting for a multiplayer match to start.
After showcasing a few games that will appear on the platform, Microsoft went on to talk about how the Xbox will help personalize TV viewing, including providing feedback to broadcasters. A live-action Halo TV show was announced, which will have the involvement of Steven Spielberg, while the NFL will be able to use SmartGlass apps and the “Snap” feature to view game stats, organize fantasy football rosters, and other “exclusive and interactive content.”
The Xbox One is slated to ship around the world later this year, with retailers in Australia set to have the new box in stores by October 2013.
