Xbox Slims Down for New System

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Microsoft finally unleashed their big secret. A newer, slimmer Xbox 360 is being made in preparation for their new motion controller, Kinect. Sporting a sleeker design, the new Xbox 360 Slim is already shipping to stores in North America and depending on where you live, may even be available to purchase at your local store for the familiar price of $299.99.

What stands this Xbox apart from the old model is a generational step in what consumers and gamers want out of their home consoles. The biggest improvement to the new model is the inclusion of built-in 802.11n Wireless. It is about time Microsoft offered a solution to those expensive wireless adapters on previous models. The new model also includes a 250GB hard drive that is tucked away inside the system. Unfortunately, the hard drive is still proprietary from Microsoft so the only way to upgrade is to buy another hard drive (assuming you can fill 250GB worth of games.) The last big feature is that the new model will be Kinect ready. There is a special spot in the back of the system for the Kinect camera. Kinect will be a stand-alone product that requires its own power source, so on older models, the Kinect will have to be plugged into a wall outlet as well as the system, but not with the new Slims. Just plug and play.

There are definitely more features than just these, such as touch-buttons (like the PlayStation 3’s) to power on and eject, much less power consumption, and an extra USB port. All these features are added dressing for the slick new design and internal wireless. If you haven’t picked up an Xbox 360 yet, or are looking to upgrade an older model, this is definitely a nice product. In fact, GameStop is even offering pre-orders for their next shipments because the initial batch has already been wiped clean.

Check with your local retailer for pre-order information as well as trade-in offers.

STAT BOX
Product
Xbox 360 Slim
Company
Microsoft
Date
06/22/2010