Microsoft intends to confuse Console Market even more

[Jonbo298]

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 2 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, 2 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.

http://www.theinquirer.net/?article=19615

[Blackmane]

Well, I have been figuring that Microsoft would slip farther and farther from straight consoles and push for the computer system.

I don't know why someone would want to buy an un-upgradable computer just to play their Xbox games.

[GT News]

Originally Posted by Blackmane

Well, I have been figuring that Microsoft would slip farther and farther from straight consoles and push for the computer system.

I don't know why someone would want to buy an un-upgradable computer just to play their Xbox games.

How about that.
Where were you figuring that Microsoft would slip farther and farther from straight consoles and push for the computer system?
Why does the sun rise?

[Null]

raises a lot of interesting questions. if they make on version into a PC. but say its not really upgradable...... How hard would it be to put an Xbox drive in a normal PC and play xbox2 games?
Thats really what companies should consider doing. making the console in a computer drive form. like buying a DVD drive and installing it in your computer. you could buy an Xbox drive and install it. it would read xbox discs and play the games....

now the part that worries me is the part where they say one will come with a HD and one without.
this idea never works. it'll end up hurting them because they'd be hard pressed to make a game that NEEDS the HD. because not all thier userbase will have one.
Thats one of sonys problems right now with thier HDD.

[Jonbo298]

Good points there Null. The Xbox's strong point is that developers can take advantage of the HD without worrying about the userbase because everyone has one. And Sony has that issue. Also, Nintendo does with the FF Crystal Chronicles game where your forced to play with a GBA.

Not everyone will graps this. Plus, what happens if a game is forced on the Xbox2 to use an HD and you have a non-HD version? Raises alot of questions, possibly.

[Professor S]

The worst part about all this is that the HD isn't even really a cost issue. Out of everything in the Xbox, the HD might be the lest expensive major component. I think that they've been listening too much to idiot criticisms about the size of their console.

Note To Microsoft: No one really cares how big the damn thing is. Those that do care are trying to fond something to criticize. Just make it powerful and STANDARD.

[Null]

if size was an issue, theres plenty of small HD's that store 40 or 60GB. like the ipod itself is a hard drive.

and built right, it doesnt have to be that big with a full size drive. So im not entirely sure what would make them want to sell a version without a HD. seems like a bad idea.
unless they want people to buy that, then sell a HD at a higher price when games come out that need a HD. forcing people to spend even more.

i dunno. something tells me tho they'll re think this idea when it comes time to release it. i think MAYBE what we'll end up with is one xbox with a small hard drive. and another xbox with a much much bigger hard drive.

[Bube]

Originally Posted by Null

if size was an issue, theres plenty of small HD's that store 40 or 60GB. like the ipod itself is a hard drive.

Yes, but think about the price of an iPod. Almost as much as a XBox. The more compact, the more expensive they get. Would making a smaller, but much more expensive XBox be a smart move?

Would you rather buy a smaller system for 500$, or a larger one for 300$? I'd go for the larger, cheaper one for sure...

If it was small and cheap, of course it would be better. But I, for one, don't think size is a deciding factor.