Wednesday, March 28, 2007

XBOX 360 ELITE - HDMI AND MORE STORAGE

Microsoft has confirmed today that the XBOX 360 Elite is indeed the real deal.

While the internals remain the same, the external differences are notable.

Changes include:
  • Black paint
  • 120GB hard drive
  • HDMI port
Missing is the integrated Wi-Fi for which everyone was hoping.

Contrary to reports, before Microsoft confirmed the launch, the elite is going to be a permanent third SKU rather than a limited edition.

The 120GB hard drive will be available separately as reported by Microsoft for a premium of $179 (USD). The black accessories are that come with the elite will not be available separately so if you like that colour you will have to paint your own or buy the new 360.

As far as I can see the Elite is an easy way for Microsoft to shove their nose ahead of Sony's PlayStation 3 storage-wise but the new 360 really doesn't bring anything new to the playing field. With no integrated Wi-Fi the 360 will still need to be hooked up via a $100 wireless add-on or via hardware (but who has a readily available router right close to their TV?).

For $479 (USD) and I assume $579 (CAD) it's an expensive purchase (thirty dollars less than the PS3).

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