14 DAY TRIAL // There have been numerous rumors about Microsoft's prepping to release yet another Xbox 360, with four models of the machine already stuffing the market (Core, Arcade, Premium and Elite). Nevertheless, according to CVG (quoting The Seattle Times), Bill Gates is set to make an "important announcement" next week in Vegas.
According to next-gen.biz, Brier Dudley working with The Seattle Times reckons that Bill Gates may look to "go out with a bang" at the annual CES presentation, as he prepares to step down from his position of Microsoft Chairman. The Seattle Times' reporter suggests that Microsoft may just license the Xbox platform to consumer electronics companies, according to the same website:
"In particular, Microsoft could work with Toshiba to develop a digital video recorder with a hard-drive, high-definition HD-DVD drive and Xbox gaming capabilities," he says. "They're already allied against Sony and other backers of the Blu-ray DVD format, and Toshiba could help Xbox finally penetrate the Japanese market."
Dudley also reckons that Gates' big announcement concerns a long-time rumored Xbox 360 with built-in HD-DVD drive.
Stuff.tv on the other hand, according to Destructoid.com, claims "that Microsoft is set to launch a new Xbox 360 SKU come Fall 2008," with "the Web arm of the UK tech magazine" reporting that the new machine (not necessarily an Xbox 360 as we know it) will sport 1080p HDMI output, built in Wi-Fi, hi-def audio ouput, cooler and quieter hardware and a built in HD-DVD drive."
Given that there have also been rumors that Microsoft's would take the casual approach in the near future, developing something more Wii-ish, there's plenty of room for speculation, not just for us editors, but for you, the computer entertainment enthusiasts who have the power to express their thoughts by posting comments. So why don't you post one now?