Microsoft stunned the crowd after revealing its latest Xbox One S console at E3 2016. Despite months of buzz from Sony's anticipated PlayStation 4.5 'NEO' update, it looks like it's Microsoft that drew first blood.
The formula for the new Xbox One S console is simple: a new moniker that mimics Apple's iPhone generations, a white paintjob and a sleeker design that's 40 percent smaller than the standard Xbox One console.
Don't let the smaller size fool you – the Xbox One S boasts 4K Ultra HD video support and 4K Ultra HD Bluray, as well as HDR for both games and video content. What's more, Microsoft also managed to develop smarter packaging that enables the power supply to now be integrated within the main body of the device.
“The Xbox One S for us was a realization that first, we want to make a smaller Xbox, but there was also some capability that we saw growing out in the market around HDR and 4K video,” announced Xbox head Phil Spencer. “So we said, if we’re going to do an upgrade to our console, let’s go ahead and embrace some of the technologies that are coming and make those part of our core SKU.”
Peripheral-wise, a brand new Xbox One controller was introduced with the Xbox One S. A new textured grip makes it feel even better in the hands and an extended range means that the new controller is also more versatile. However, features that were once staples for the original Xbox One are now gone in the Xbox One S, namely the dedicated Kinect sensor port. That said, current Xbox One owners that choose to make the Xbox One S upgrade can receive a Kinect USB adaptor for free.
The launch edition 2TB Xbox One S will drop in early August and cost $399. Meanwhile, the standard 500GB Xbox One S will start at $299. Finally, the 1TB Xbox One S is priced at $349.
Introducing the new Xbox One S, featuring 4K Ultra HD video, streamlined controller, and more. #XboxE3https://t.co/CWuG5QEeF7
— Xbox (@Xbox) June 13, 2016
