Rumors circulated this week that Microsoft would "soft launch" new 360 models that feature an HDMI port and the more efficient 65nm chips (instead of the current 90nm). A representative confirmed to GameSpot that new 360s shipped to retail do indeed feature HDMI connectivity on the Pro SKU, but not the Core SKU. Up until this point, the HDMI port was something only available on the Elite model.
"Yes, we are offering an HDMI port for Xbox 360 simply as another choice in Xbox 360 owners' games and entertainment experience," the representative said. "Retailers are gradually introducing HDMI-enabled Xbox 360s into the channel to meet demand."
Consumers shouldn't have to worry about purchasing a new 360 without HDMI because the boxes on the new shipments will have an HDMI label to indicate the presence of the port.
Although many suspect that these new model 360s also include the 65nm chips and possibly a quieter DVD drive, Microsoft would not confirm these reports. "We are constantly updating the console's more than 1,700 internal components and therefore will not comment on details of specific components or manufacturing processes," the rep stated.
by James Brightman
source:gamedaily.com
