270°

The Xbox 360 Slim: Better Or Worse?

Tech News Daily: One of the less surprising things to come out of the Electronic Entertainment Expo this year was the announcement of a new “slim” model of the Xbox 360. Microsoft has been planning it for some time, but we weren’t expecting it to launch so quickly, as it’s now available at (most) retail stores.

TechNewsDaily managed to get our hands on one to test it out, and see if it’s any better – or worse – than the current Xbox 360 model.

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technewsdaily.com
JOLLY15056d ago

I really like it. I am so happy I didn't go buy the n adapter and waited!

8800gtx5056d ago

In terms of performance its the same.

/ducks for cover

8800gtx

darthv725056d ago (Edited 5056d ago )

In fact every revised system in the past has been the same performance wise as the original.

Actually, I need to correct myself. The PSP slim did get a memory upgrade from 32 to 64mb over the original. Why they didnt opt to double it again for the GO is anyone's guess.

Anyway, that is the intention of a revision to a console. I am sure the opportunity presents itself where improvements could be made to the performance by way of increasing the amount of memory. In fact, I correct myself again as the turbo duo had a memory increase over the original turbografx. With the new 360 they added in wifi, dedicated optical audio port and additional usb ports. People can scoff and proclaim that sony has had this for years. Sure, but that is sony not MS.

Consistancy in performance is the idea of a console revision unless the changes in overall performance is done early enough to where the forth coming units will outplace the previous ones. Case in point, the psp to psp slim. I dont know hard numbers but it is safe to say the slim has far outsold the original and those with the original are in the minority as everyone who bought one after all have the better performing units. Think the ps3 and its launch price point and specs. Great value but at a price. So soon after launch they started making changes that they wanted to get a handle on early on. Changes that would lead to a system that would outsell the originals by far.

In some sense, it makes the originals worth more as a collectors item because so few were sold. That wont be the case here. So many 360's have been sold that this revision is seen as a way to keep itself fresh even though it technically isnt. Same with the ps1 and ps2 slims. Change the look and get a whole new crowd of consumers.

At the end of my long read, if they had made some type of significant performance change it could cause issues with existing software as well as development of future titles.

8800gtx5056d ago

"no need for cover...you are correct"

shhh.. you are gonna aleart the horde.

/ducks for cover

8800gtx

darthv725056d ago

to be honest..this is not the first time someone has second guessed the purchase of the same system but in a newer revised form.

Console revisions have been happening as far back as the atari 2600. Maybe even before that. Any time a new revision to an existing platform is released it gets questioned as to if it is worth the trade in of the old. Considering the phasing out of the "old" is the inevitable this really is the topic for the tried and true.

No doubt new buyers are going to be steered to the newer unit. Old buyers get that feeling of buyers remorse (some for other reasons wink wink) because here comes a new looking unit that plays all the same games and yet is intriguing to them enough to question the very nature of the trade in.

Hands down this is the unit 360 fans have been wanting. Want no more as it is right here. The opportunity presents itself to trade in your old unit for the nice shiny new one. You could also simply buy the new unit outright and have both. One to play, one to collect (if you are into collecting gaming stuff like I am).

This situation is not so different when owing a car (it will make sense in a bit). You buy a certain year/model of car and drive it into the ground or you drive it right and take care of it. Point is, there comes a time where you will want a newer car. Could be the same model or it could be a totally different mfg. Bottom line is the newness is what drives us to purchase something that is different that what we currently have.

It doesnt matter if you trade in a toyota corolla for another corolla because there is something about that new corolla that your old one doesnt have. No I am not talking about that new car smell but rather the simple fact is that it's newer. Stuff added as standard where before you had to pay extra.

Articles like these that generate this questioning of why we should or shouldnt are really not the way to make a decision. Remember these are simply opinions from someone who writes the article and can differ from yours in many ways.

beardpapa5056d ago

What I'm very curious about is how come pictures of the new 360S never got leaked weeks and months before release?

You would think with all those gadget leaks over the past few months that we'd see actual leaked images of the new system.

darthv725056d ago

Sometimes companies will do their own insider leak on purpose. It creates more of a dramatic effect if it gives the impression that it "got out" by way of spies or somebody wanting to make a name of themselves on the web.

When it came to the ps3 slim I fully believe sony was behind the early leak. Possibly to drum up hype for the unit as it got closer to official announcement.

That last part is speculation.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 5056d ago
SOAD5056d ago

I think the issue has been reduced to acceptable levels. No electronic product is perfect, and I don't think MS is very good at hardware, so their electronics may never be labeled perfect.

LoydX-mas5056d ago

Other than the ONE photo of a system that had an early shutdown (before any damage), prove that the new 360s RRODs.

http://news.cnet.com/8301-1...

gcolley5056d ago

i am not seeing the flood of reports about over heating. i have seen one. what is wrong with people

Adrela5056d ago

The only new 360 that has reported of "RROD" was clearly the owners fault. Was placed in a enclosed space and was dusty all in side. And the article didn't state how long the 360 had been on. People shouldn't be talking about that stupid article.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 5056d ago
playstation_clan5056d ago (Edited 5056d ago )

for now

EDIT: the ps3 with online is an improvement too. lol

SupaGamer5056d ago

-It's quiter.
-larger hard drive.
-Won't RRD
-Wifi built in
-New inputs

*Of course it's better!

Moentjers5056d ago

It's also 5 years to late

-It's quiter -> should have been so day 1
-larger hard drive -> updates should have been cheaper
-Won't RRD -> should have been so day 1
-Wifi built in -> should have been so day 1
-New inputs -> add-on

ForROME5056d ago (Edited 5056d ago )

PS3 was 4yrs late to the game to try to play on the playground and win a console war but shouldnt stop you from calling it a success but its late to the game, they should have been slimmer cheaper and had the firmware it has now and then some

but, it is what it is your repy = FAIL

Moentjers5056d ago

@ForROME

I didn't say the PS3 was a launch success either.
To add 'the worst PR/Advertising of a new console ever' to your list.
And the removal of functionalities (PS2 backward, OS-removal...) has never been seen before.

But... my first minute 60GB PS3 still works fine.
It's quiet, doesn't RROD (I dare to leave it on for multiple days), wifi is built in.
The only thing I added was a 86€ HDD with 640GB on it to store more music and pictures.

Sometimes I still have the feeling that with my 60GB lancher I still have more value than the Slim could ever give me.

gcolley5056d ago

so that is a yes then to it being better. that was the question, there was no fanboy baiting, but still hello fanboys.

LoydX-mas5056d ago

You have some valid points about both launch systems.
I also agree that your 60gig PS3 is still the best feature-per-dollar PS3 made so far.

I don't defend MS in its decision to rush the 360, but in the end, MS is a software company first that make some hardware.

Sony is a hardware company first that makes some software.

Both have issues with what they make, but both also seem to redeem themselves.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 5056d ago
Solidus187-SCMilk5056d ago (Edited 5056d ago )

once they release the arcadeS I may break my jasper360 and take it to BB to cash in on my warranty. maybe not tho, depends if the arcadeS comes with a Hard Drive or not. Im guessing it will have some sot of HD, if not MS is stupid.

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300°

Microsoft Survey Asks About Handheld

A new survey from Microsoft has further hinted at the possibility of an Xbox handheld being in development.

Read Full Story >>
twistedvoxel.com
EasilyTheBest2d ago

This is definitely happening, I just hope they have 2 versions one with a much bigger screen.

GamerRN2d ago

I'll be happy with this, and a PC console hybrid that rivals anything we have power wise

Number1TailzFan2d ago

The problem with bigger devices is playing them on your side in bed, Vita and before that was fine. Since the Switch you gotta have a gooseneck holder & controllers detached so you can lie down holding them, or your arm will quickly get tired.

1Victor1d 9h ago

@thesofware: “A much bigger screen than what?”
A gaming laptop 🤷🏿🤣

Kosic1d 9h ago

Than the screen originally planned...duh... :D

darthv721d 11h ago

it kinda already did... https://www.xbox.com/en-US/...

They are just gauging interest in one of their own.

crazyCoconuts1d 8h ago

A Xbox version of Logitech G-Cloud?
I mean, why bother? Not like the G cloud is flying off shelves and what would Xbox add to make it better?
They're surely not going to create bespoke architecture here and there are already a few Windows handhelds out there. I have little confidence in their ability to put together an attractive UI in the way Steam did. So I doubt anything will come from this.

KicksnSnares2d ago

Day One buy for me if they'll make a dedicated handheld device.

darthv722d ago

i have that logitech g-cloud. Its a sweet little piece of kit. I like that it can also install games from the play store unlike the other android based handheld.

mudakoshaka2d ago

It sure is! Don't understand why you get the down-votes. Whoever does not like the G Cloud must have been dropped down a well, head first, when they were of a younger age.

PassNextquestion2d ago

I wonder if Microsoft will perform better in Japan if they do actually make a handheld since everyone says handheld and mobile are king over there.

TiredGamer2d ago

This looks like the future of the game industry... all three platforms with a handheld option.

I wonder if the Playstation Portal is a technology test-bed/prototype for a future Playstation handheld?

rlow12d ago (Edited 2d ago )

It’s a possibility but I can’t help but think would that be the best way to go about it? Though it would give you data on how much it is used and game type. It’s still not a true portable device and so people approach it differently. I think that data on phones, tablets, and of course the competition would give a better indication.

But I really think if Sony is considering a new PSP that could play ps5 games, now would be the time to dive in. Honestly, if they do this, it would be huge.

Traecy2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Doubt if Sony PS wants to support a new handheld with first party games. Something they lacked with the Vita. What they should do is have a handheld that is like the PS Portal which can play all games but play those games on the go as well as at home. Something like that is a better investment.

TiredGamer1d 22h ago

Agreed that you will probably never see a separate line of games specifically for the handheld (a la PSP or PSVita). The modern economics and expectations of game development make that cost prohibitive. What makes more sense is if the full-fat game on PS5 or PS6 has a special "handheld" profile that is automatically optimized for the lower spec handheld. There would be some significant compromises compared to the bigger console variant, but it would be the same game overall and would only require a single purchase.... somewhat what the Switch does with a lower resolution when playing handheld versus docked.

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310°

Xbox Games Showcase Followed by [REDACTED] Direct Airs June 9

- Xbox Wire - Mark your calendars! The Xbox Games Showcase followed by [REDACTED] Direct airs June 9. More info inside.

Read Full Story >>
news.xbox.com
bionicstar2d ago

Will they show Fable 4, Stalker 2, GoW 6 & Perfect Dark?

PhillyDonJawn2d ago

Crossing fingers for Fable and perfect dark. And State of Decay 3

RaidenBlack2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

And maybe Clockwork Revolution, South of Midnight, Contraband, Project 007 & OD? lol
and whatever happened to Everwild ?
+ that rumored Wu Tang RPG

Sonic18812d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Will they have official release dates and gameplay?

anast2d ago

Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming.

2d ago
Lightning772d ago

It's an Xbox showcase that they have every year.

Make smarter comments for once.

anast2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Tell me what a smarter comment is.

If they don't sell game pass the entire time, then I will be wrong. All of this can be proven once the show gets underway. Let's wait and see.

InUrFoxHole1d 13h ago

@Anast
Anything you didn't type. Good day sir!

2d ago
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2d ago Replies(1)
Lightning772d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Wow too easy.

You went from MS going all streaming to selling gamepass content in which we all know they are.

Which one is it?

Pretty clear you don't know what a smart comment is at least you admit you don't know.

2d ago
anast2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

"Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming."

It's both. I would worry about your own intelligence at this point. It seems that there is not enough to go around for you to worry about how smart other people are.

Lightning772d ago

It's just a regular event announcing games. Nice one captain obvious they're gonna mention gp stuff like they do every year what else is new.

The all streaming part is just you, being you I guess. They have streaming options but going all streaming again is just you pulling stuff outta thin air.

anast2d ago

You don't know what a smart comment is or isn't. You're welcome for the help.

Lightning771d 22h ago

No you said something dumb then you tried to back track and mention GP.

Again make smart comments for once.

anast1d 15h ago

And we have broken record syndrome.

+ Show (6) more repliesLast reply 1d 13h ago
darthv722d ago

Wonder if they will address the handheld rumors....?

jimb0j0nes2d ago

For a brief moment I thought we might get a whole Direct for Gears 6 - seems like it's COD though!

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290°

Microsoft’s Surface and Xbox hardware revenues take a big hit in Q3

Microsoft just posted the third quarter of its 2024 fiscal financial results. The software maker made $61.9 billion in revenue and a net income of $21.9 billion during Q3. Revenue is up 17 percent, and net income has increased by 20 percent.

Read Full Story >>
theverge.com
darthv727d ago

Xbox content + services up 62% while hardware down 31%... seems about right with the way they tout you don't need the hardware to play. People can play on their phones or smart tv or other means. I don't hardly play on my consoles directly since getting devices like the logitech g-cloud and ps portal. Which is to also say I have been playing more digital than physical because of these devices.

solideagle6d ago

you should apply in MS PR team buddy, I think you will do a great job in my humble opinion :)

Sonic18816d ago

I thought darthv72 and Obscure_Observer already work for Microsoft 🤔

dveio6d ago

MS: "Xbox services and content without AB up 1%, with AB up 62%. Hardware down 31%. In total a loss of 350 mill."

darthv72: "Seems about right."

MS: "Excuse m ..."

darthv72: "I don't hardly play on my consoles directly."

MS:

Lightning776d ago

What he said was facts. How he plays games is no concern of you. Don't get too mad about it.

Cacabunga6d ago

I can tell people like you are an absolute minority..

If service is up means their fans and fanboys accepted this model and subscribed to it. The near future you will see a big decline because the service is saturated.

darthv726d ago

to you it may seem like the minority... but your bubble is shrinking because more and more are following suit. convenience is a hell of a drug and its also why physical sales only amount to 30% of overall game sales. times are changing, you either get with them or you get left behind.

neutralgamer19925d ago

Darth

30% physical sales: yet Phil and xbox division are in a rush go give up on that 30%. they don't have any right to give up any piece of the pie since the control such a little of the pie to begin with

also, the market is clearly speaking that the model Xbox is pushing isn't working right now the keyword being right now. you are right about freedom to play anywhere so i hope they put their games on steam

shinoff21836d ago

But that's been ms for years. When things aren't going their way they try to change the way things are said. For instance console sales are down, they stop telling how many sold instead telling us how many hours spent in halo or headshots. So it makes sense console sales down just say people are playing on more devices then previous. What they won't say is how many xbox players jumped ship to ps5.

Cacabunga6d ago

Hardware sales are so bad that Sony and Nintendo are blowing the sales off the water with their hardware.

If Xbox are losers, others aren’t..
Xbox already tried everything with Xbox live then subscriptions went down so much that they had to find something else. Their fans subscribed then reached saturation rather quickly.

Hardware and exclusive games is where it’s at! Keep gamers excited, announce decent software and people will support you

itsmebryan6d ago

@shin
Well keep it simple Sony 's operating income is down 26% and Microsoft's is up 32%. No MS spin there, just facts. 😉
Cheers

S2Killinit6d ago

MS is after diminishing consoles as a medium. They want to destroy this market because they couldnt win. MS’s vision is to dissolve console gaming.

romulus236d ago

Odd that a company that touts you dont need the hardware to play is already touting another console in the works.

darthv726d ago

They are not reliant on the HW but still want to maintain a presence (no matter how small) is a good thing. It shows commitment to the craft. It reminds me of SNK and how they made games for their own hardware (Neo Geo) while also making them for others because they knew there was a market to do so. They knew they would sell more to others but also sell to their own niche fan base.

TheEroica6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

Perfectly reasonable post down voted by insecure corporation friendly folk.... But not gamers. Real gamer want accessibility and ease of acquisition for all.... Company shills are the only ones still telling us that hardware locking people from games is good for us.

Chevalier5d ago

@Darth

You should stop parroting metrics like an idiot without context.

"Xbox content and services revenue grew 62% in Q3 from a year earlier, “driven by 61 points of net impact” from the purchase of the third-party video game giant, Microsoft said."

61 of the 62% was from their merger so net increase is ONLY 1%

https://www.mesaonline.org/...

itsmebryan5d ago

@chevalier

It looks like made a great purchase. Much better then Sony buying Bungie. 😉
Cheers

+ Show (4) more repliesLast reply 5d ago
purple1016d ago

Xbox hardware revenue tanks to lowest point of Xbox Series generation

Profchaos6d ago

I'm not surprised surface is struggling they aren't relevant anymore

DOMination-6d ago

In the last two years they've started exiting the consumer market altogether. All of the newest Surface products are business models only. They can't seem to work out what they want to do with it.

XBManiac6d ago

Too expensive hardware when others offer the same or more for less? Good work, Green Team.

SimpleDad6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

"Despite some early successes for Xbox games on rival platforms, Xbox hardware is down by a massive 31 percent this quarter."
"Without Activision Blizzard, Microsoft’s overall gaming revenue would have actually declined this quarter."
"Xbox content and services would have only been up a single percent without Activision Blizzard..."
"It looks like next quarter is going to be a similar story for gaming at Microsoft, too."

That is crazy... so A/B/K is carrying the whole Xbox gaming.
Oh and Microsoft will be fine. Windows, Office and Cloud are growing with each pc purchase.

purple1016d ago

Activision: "we gonna need a bigger rucksack/backpack please"

Microsoft: "why's that"

Activision: "to carry yo' weak ass'

Profchaos6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

Top brass have also wanted to start seeing returns on the 100 billion they have put into various Xbox related moves so seeing more multiplatform games is highly likely especially from abk

It's basically saying that PlayStation is the reason Xbox is afloat right now thinks to Ps5 versions of COD

Kornholic6d ago

So basically PS and PC gamers' money is keeping Xbox on life support.

MrDead6d ago

The only growth MS will get out of the console industry is if it supports it's rivals platforms. Xbox is a pointless machine now. I can see them on a big push for live next, and they won't give up on trying to buy Steam.

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