Microsoft's next-generation 'Durango' Xbox console will feature a large hard disk to hold games along with a Blu-ray disc, although play from the optical drive will not be supported, according to information from an Xbox Development Kit (XDK) posted online.
Vgleaks has provided
screenshots of an Xbox Development Kit (XDK) for Microsoft's next-generation console.
According to the screenshots, Durango us a familiar x64 architecture with a CPU and a powerful GPU, along with hardware accelerators with "more engines" for common tasks. It will also implement different power states so that it an always be powered on but draw minimal electricity when not in use.
The console will be also always ready instantly when users want to play, and will always manitain a network connection so that console software and games are always current, the "Durango Hardware Overview" reads.
In addition, Durango consoles will have a hard drive, large enough to hold "a large nubmer of games." All games will be installed on the hard drive and play from the inlcuded Blu-ray disc drive will not be supported. Previous reports suggested Durango game installations would be mandatory. Currently, Xbox 360 games can be installed to HDD, but they require the disc to run.
An installable game requirement backs up claims that Microsoft is developing an anti-used games system that requires activation codes for Blu-ray discs.
Disc media will be used for distribution, but during gameplay, games will not use content from the optical disc. Finally, an installation system will allow gamers to begin playing while the game is being installed on the hard drive rather than waiting until installation is complete.
Other information in the XDK leak includes mentions of a new high-fidelity Kinect sensor without a tilt motor to be sold with every console.
Microsoft is expected to unveil the full details of its next-generation Xbox at E3 this year.