Sunday

Microsoft unveils Xbox with 1TB storage, souped-up wireless controller


A souped-up Xbox controller, an Xbox One console with 1TB capacity, and a lower-priced Xbox One 500GB model are among Microsoft's offerings to gamers ahead of the annual Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles this week.

Microsoft unveiled an Xbox One console with 1TB capacity and a new matte finish, which it said stemmed from frequent fan request.

"Since Xbox One launched, one of the most frequent requests from fans is to add more storage to their consoles. Today, we’re unveiling the Xbox One 1TB console, with a new matte finish and more storage for your games and media, making it the best place to play the biggest blockbusters this holiday like Halo 5: Guardians, Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Forza Motorsport 6," Major Nelson said in a blog post.

The new console also lets users extend game storage further by adding an external USB 3.0 drive.

Bundled with the new console are Microsoft's new wireless Xbox controller and for a limited time in selected regions the game "Halo: The Master Chief Collection."

The Xbox One 1TB consoles will start shipping to retailers June 16 in the United States and select markets later this month, with prices starting at $399.

Microsoft also brought down the price of the 500GB Xbox One consoles to $349 in the US and select regions.

Wireless controllers

Microsoft also unveiled its new Xbox One Wireless Controller that now has a built-in 3.5mm stereo headset jack to accommodate gamers' gaming headsets.

"With the updated controller, in addition to the volume and mute controls on gaming headsets, you’ll also have the option to adjust headset volume, mic monitoring, and voice and game audio balance through the Settings menu on your console," Major Nelson said.

Microsoft also said it has improved the quality of audio coming through the controller and increased the maximum audio volume on headsets used with this controller.

The bumpers have been fine-tuned for more consistent performance and the controller can now get firmware updates wirelessly.

Gamers can also buy the new controller as a standalone item in black or as a new camouflage design in silver and black.

Windows 10 support 


Also, Microsoft is releasing the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows so gamers can use the wireless controller on Windows 10 PCs, laptops, and tablets.

"[S]imply plug the Adapter into the USB 2.0 or 3.0 port of your Windows 10 PC and bind the Adapter to your Wireless Controller to enable the same gaming experience you’re used to on Xbox One, including in-game chat and high-quality stereo audio," Major Nelson said.

He said the wireless adapter for Windows will be available for $24.99 or bundled with an Xbox One Wireless Controller for $79.95. — Joel Locsin/BM, GMA News

source: gmanetwork.com