The Next Generation Xbox 2012

Microsoft’s next-generation Xbox has been the subject of a large amount of rumors recently.


Speculation over Microsoft’s plans for the Xbox 360 include suggestions the software giant may team up with TV manufacturers for inbuilt Kinect TVs. Microsoft is also reportedly working on a new Xbox 360 model due in late 2012. Amongst the rumors, one designer has opted to create his own vision of the next-generation Xbox. Joseph Dumary, a designer at Yanko Design, has created a new Xbox concept that ditches the optical drive and controllers.


“The 100% digital Xbox Prestige uses the foundations of the previous 360 Kinect to form this completely controller-less gaming console that’s even smaller than the Xbox Slim,” explains Yanko Design. Pocket-Lint notes that the design follows rumors that Microsoft will launch a non-optical drive model of its Xbox to focus on digital content. One part of the concept is named “KinectIN” and includes two cameras built into the console. For more images, see Yanko Design.


Microsoft is currently on the verge of delivering a massive overhaul to its dashboard software to provide nearly 40 different live TV stations. Microsoft is also preparing to make new Kinect for Windows hardware available in early 2012. The optimized hardware includes components for PC scenarios. Microsoft is planning to shorten the USB cable to ensure reliability across a range of computers. The company will also include a small dongle to help ease coexistence with other USB devices. The new firmware updates for the Kinect will enable the depth camera to see objects as close as 50 centimetres in front of the device without losing any precision. Microsoft calls this “Near Mode” and the company hopes it will enable a whole new class of “up close” apps that have not been made available previously.

Source: Winrumors
Concept Art: YankoDesign

i read about this as well on redmondpie - looks cool

Only concept art though remember!

looks abit like a massive external HDD