After being leaked yesterday, Microsoft finally confirmed that it will introduce a new version of the Xbox One, called the Xbox One S.
It promises to be smaller and lighter than its predecessor. The Xbox One S features a new design and is painted white. Microsoft notes that it is 40 percent smaller than the original Xbox One, and has responded to fan requests by allowing it to be placed horizontally or vertically (via a stand).
Technology-wise, the Xbox One S now has 4K support, allowing you to watch Blu-ray movies and stream video in Ultra HD. It also offers High Dynamic Range support for video and gaming, allowing you to “experience richer, more luminous colours” that bring out the “true visual depth of your games and media” – well, according to Microsoft.
However, in order to make the new Xbox One S more compact, they decided to remove the dedicated Kinect port from the back. If you plan to use the Kinect with the new Xbox One S, you’ll need to buy a USB adapter from Microsoft. However, if you already own a Kinect and plan to purchase an Xbox One S, you can get the adapter for free.
There will three variants of the Xbox One S: 500GB, 1TB and a limited edition 2TB model. Microsoft Australia has confirmed that we will be one of the few markets that will get the limited edition 2TB Xbox One S. That will have a RRP of AU$549. Microsoft Australia has not confirmed local pricing for the 500GB and 1TB models.
The 2TB Xbox One S is available for preorder today. All three units will be in stores from August.
In addition to announcing a brand new console, there is a new Xbox Wireless Controller. Design-wise, it has enhanced the comfort of the console, and improved the design of the thumbstick to “significantly reduce” wear and tear. Microsoft also notes that it has improved the wireless signal performance to give you a much more reliable connection to the console, and up to twice the wireless range when used with the Xbox One S.
The controller is also compatible with Windows 10 devices via Bluetooth.
The controller will be available worldwide from August. While it will cost US$59.99 in the United States, Microsoft Australia has not confirmed local pricing.
CORRECTION [10:00AM]: We previously listed what we thought were local prices for the 500GB and 1TB Xbox One S. We’ve been informed those prices are not correct, and local pricing for those models has not been set. Apologies for that.