Second Version of the Xbox 360 revealed? (Codename: Zephyr)

There is a rumor floating around the internet today that there is an updated version of the Xbox 360 in development, codenamed “Zephyr” that includes an HDMI port and a much bigger 120 gigabyte Hard Drive. The Xbox 360 was recently updated to provide 1080p output through VGA and component cables but the question lingering on everyone’s mind was whether the Xbox 360 could output a digital signal (and more importantly support HDMI output) for use on televisions that do not support 1080p via analog signals. For a while, there was much speculation that Microsoft would release an HDMI cable for the Xbox 360, but based on the rumor, they have just decided to throw in an HDMI port instead. This is not the first time this has been rumored, according to another rumor that surfaced a few months ago, the HDMI equipped Xbox 360 was already in development.

The rumored 120 gigabyte hard drive is a much needed add on, as Xbox 360 users are finding themselves short on space after downloading the many demos and high definition movies and television shows available on the Xbox Live Marketplace. It is unknown whether or not the larger hard drive will come bundled with the new console or will be sold separately. The price of this new console (if this rumor is in fact, true) is still up in the air but I guess it will come in at $399 and the current Xbox 360 console will receive a price drop. When will this console be available for purchase? That is also unknown, but from what I hear, “soon”.

As for my personal take, this does not sit too well. I get the feeling that Microsoft is milking the extra buck out of current Xbox 360 owners who have 1080p televisions that only accept 1080p signals through HDMI. These people have only two options if they want to enjoy their Xbox 360 in the full 1080p resolution, they can buy a new television that can support 1080p through VGA or Component inputs, or buying the updated Xbox 360. Although this is not the first time a hardware manufacturer has revised their hardware (see Sony’s slim line Playstation 2 and Nintendo’s DS Lite), I would rather not have to buy a new version of something I already have to get the best experience. But, I do understand that this is only a rumor and should be taken with a grain of salt until an official announcement is made.