Xbox One Announced May 21, 2013

No, this is not a repeat from the year 2000, Microsoft has just announced the third Xbox console, and it is called quite simply, Xbox One.  The new device will sport an impressive hardware spec sheet including 8GB RAM, integrated WiFi, a Blu-Ray Disc drive, USB 3.0, and HDMI connectivity.

Xbox One will come standard with an entirely redesigned controller.  At first, it looks a lot like the Xbox 360’s controller, as it has the same basic shape, but it has a lot of improvements with it under the hood.  First off, they improved the D-Pad, which was one of the biggest complaints of the 360’s controller.  They also improved the controller’s rumble feature, which Microsoft is referring to as HD rumble.  Microsoft also completely changed the controller’s connectivity standards to improve latency.  The new controller will have at least a 15% latency improvement over the 360’s controller.  Xbox One’s controller will not have a speaker.

The console will also come standard with an entirely new Xbox Kinect.  To start off, the new Kinect features a 1080p camera, which can be used with Skype.  You will also be able to turn the Xbox One off and on strictly by your voice.  If you prefer to play your games in the dark, the new Kinect has night vision.  The new Kinect also has improved voice and facial recognition, the console will be able to recognize you immediately when you step in front of the Kinect or speak, and log you in when the system turns on.  Yes, you will be able to turn the Xbox One on and off with your voice.

For people who prefer to watch TV, it will include an internal cable box which you will be able to enable seamlessly by voice or gesture.  This will allow players to seamlessly navigate between television, movies, and gameplay, without the need to change the inputs on your HDTV.  For those who prefer digital cable, Xbox One provides a voice controlled interactive TV guide.

Finally, like the PS4 has promised, the Xbox One has the ability to record your gameplay to the console.

Xbox One is coming later this year.  Stay tuned to this space for more information about Microsoft’s latest console.