| NEXT BOX 2005-02-17, 5:43 pm |
| http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=6879
Xbox 2 to sport wireless controllers as standard
Rob Fahey 11:57 17/02/2005
Next-gen system to drop the wires as Wavebird becomes a trendsetter
Microsoft's next-generation home console has been designed to use wireless
controllers by default, according to online reports which have been
confirmed to GamesIndustry.biz this morning by developers working on titles
for the system.
British technology news site The Inquirer reported yesterday that the new
console will sport controllers very similar to the current Controller S
design, but using wireless rather than wired connections to the console.
Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz this morning, developers working with
prototype Xbox 2 hardware confirmed that while they have not seen final
designs for the controller, Microsoft representatives have indicated that
the pads will indeed be wireless.
A number of questions are raised by the decision to use wireless
peripherals - most obvious being whether the pads will continue to support
battery-draining rumble functions, and if they will be rechargeable or
simply rely on replaceable AA batteries.
Microsoft will be the first console manufacturer to ship wireless pads as
standard with its hardware, but not the first to ship an official wireless
controller; Nintendo has already enjoyed significant success with the
WaveBird, its wireless pad for the GameCube.
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