Following the recent PS4 unveiling, latest reports have suggested that Microsoft will host an Xbox 720 launch event on May 21, with the console to hit retailers later this year.
With Microsoft widely expected to announce its next-generation console ahead of June’s E3 2013 gathering, respected tech bloggers have now hinted that the eagerly awaited next Xbox unveiling will be held in a little over a month’s time.
The latest claimed Xbox 720 leaks, which come courtesy of Paul Thurrott and the ‘What the Tech’ podcast, have suggested that with the console still in line to hit retailers before the lucrative 2013 pre-Christmas shopping period, an Xbox 720 launch event will see the console enter the realms of reality on May 21.
Offering further, slightly speculative, insight into the upcoming PS4 rival, Thurrott has suggested that, as previously suggested by multiple sources, Microsoft will had its upcoming gamer the simple title of ‘Xbox’, not the Xbox 720 branding that has been bandied around for a number of years.
On top of this, the reports have seemingly backed up claims that the console will require an always-on internet connection during gaming, a requirement that could be detrimental to some.
“Going back and looking at some of the stuff I got a long time ago, it actually says ‘must be internet-connected to use’ in the notes and that’s all I have, but it does say that,” Thurrott stated.
He added that the Xbox 720 release date has been earmarked for “early November”, a launch period that would see the device go head-to-head with Sony’s already confirmed “2013 holiday season” PS4 release date.
Xbox 720 Rumours
One of the most hotly anticipated announcements on the tech calendar, recent Xbox 720 rumours suggested that following the PS4 unveiling, Microsoft is currently tweaking its next-gen gamer to match the potential of its main rival.
According to Ubisoft Montreal CEO Yannis Mallat, the Xbox 720 will be “aligned with what Sony announced,” as Microsoft ensures it is up to spec with the recently confirmed PS4.
"Let's state the obvious: the easy and immediate thing is going to be the graphics," he said. "There are some mind-blowing graphics right now on our next-gen technology, both on Watch Dogs and Assassin's Creed. That will be the entry door for anyone, even for the mainstream. It's really going to be amazing. Trust me on this one.”
He added: "That being said, the connected aspects and the social components will be what will define the difference between a next-gen experience and a current-gen experience. And we're eager to be able to talk about that and show that when we're ready."
Via: T3
