Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sony patents a Vita with HDMI, USB ports [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/sony-patents-a-vita-with-hdmi-usb-ports/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/sony-patents-a-vita-with-hdmi-usb-ports/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/sony-patents-a-vita-with-hdmi-usb-ports/#comments Sony patents Vita with an HDMI portSony filed a patent for a Vita that includes HDMI and USB ports. The patent, spotted by Patent Bolt, was filed on February 7 in the US and includes a detailed run-down of the hardware, including the above photo of a Vita with HDMI and USB connection slots (25 and 24, respectively).

Update: This configuration matches that of a Vita dev kit, so it could be as simple as patenting that (existing, non-public) model.

JoystiqSony patents a Vita with HDMI, USB ports [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDMIpatentplaystationplaystation-vitaSONYusbvitaTue, 12 Feb 2013 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U is 1080p; has HDMI out, internal flash memory, SD and USB storage support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/wii-u-is-1080p-has-hdmi-out-internal-flash-memory-sd-and-usb/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/wii-u-is-1080p-has-hdmi-out-internal-flash-memory-sd-and-usb/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/wii-u-is-1080p-has-hdmi-out-internal-flash-memory-sd-and-usb/#comments While Nintendo was blowing minds this morning with the announcement of its new console, the Wii U, the company's Japanese press site was quietly releasing all the juicy specs of the upcoming machine that we hunger for. As mentioned during the presser, the console will output games in high definition, now revealed as ranging from 480i to 1080p. Moreover, the Wii U will output HD by employing HDMI.

As far as internal storage goes, it's still unclear whether or not the Wii U will come packed with an HDD, but the specs sheet does amorphously detail "internal flash storage," as well as an SD slot and the ability to use USB storage. Notably, the list points out that the USB storage will allow for external HDDs. And while the disc slot gives us the impression that Wii U games will be disc-based, Nintendo has yet to reveal its medium of choice.

JoystiqWii U is 1080p; has HDMI out, internal flash memory, SD and USB storage support originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080phard-disc-drivehardware-specshddhdminintendospecsusbwiiwii-uTue, 07 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad 2 to feature HDMI output]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/ipad-2-to-feature-hdmi-output/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/ipad-2-to-feature-hdmi-output/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/ipad-2-to-feature-hdmi-output/#comments While it seems that everyone got iPad fever in 2010, we can think of one sad soul who was left out of the fun: Your TV. Oh sure, he liked watching you play Angry Birds HD, he just wishes he could get in on the fun. He doesn't want you to buy one of those fancy adapters, mind you, it's not worth all the trouble and cost. He just misses you. He misses you and all the gaming fun the two of you used to have.

Imagine your personified, surprisingly needy TV's sheer delight when he learns the iPad 2 features HDMI output via a $40 cable! It goes up to 1080p and supports all your games and apps, as well as screen rotation -- heck, it even charges your pad!

Dear reader, meet your TV. It would seem the two of you have some catching up to do.

JoystiqiPad 2 to feature HDMI output originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applehdmiipadipad-2mobileWed, 02 Mar 2011 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offering discounts on Xbox 360 accessories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/amazon-offering-discounts-on-xbox-360-accessories/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/amazon-offering-discounts-on-xbox-360-accessories/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/amazon-offering-discounts-on-xbox-360-accessories/#comments So, in anticipation of the Halo: Reach multiplayer beta, you've decided to stock up on a few Xbox 360 peripherals on the side. Amazon should be able to satisfy most of your needs on the cheap, thanks to the "MS Gearfest Promo" the online retailer is running until May 1.

Thanks to the promotion, wireless controllers have been marked down to $27.99, HDMI AV cables are $19.99, and wireless microphones go for $29.99. We're not sure why you'd be picking up extra wireless microphones in anticipation of Reach, though. Perhaps you need extra blunt objects to bludgeon your exasperating, teabagging friends?

[Thanks, Tatum]

JoystiqAmazon offering discounts on Xbox 360 accessories originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesamazoncontrollerdiscounthdmimicrosoftonlineretailsalewirelessXbox-360Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Dropping HDMI cable gives Xbox 360 consumers 'flexibility']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/microsoft-dropping-hdmi-cable-gives-xbox-360-consumers-flexibi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/microsoft-dropping-hdmi-cable-gives-xbox-360-consumers-flexibi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/microsoft-dropping-hdmi-cable-gives-xbox-360-consumers-flexibi/#comments Microsoft's VP of Interactive Entertainment Business in Europe, Chris Lewis, tells GI.biz that the removal of the HDMI cable from the Elite packaging was to enable more "flexibility to consumers who can then decide which type of cable they want for their specific gaming and TV screen set-up." Pardon us, but that's like saying Sub-Zero ripping out your spine gives your body more "flexibility." Of course, the drawback is that you're dead.

Adding insult to injury, the new Elite bundle isn't just shipping sans HDMI cable, it has no HD cables at all; meaning that consumers now have even more flexibility to purchase better cables. While any old HDMI cable will do (they're cheap too!), the Xbox 360 component cable is proprietary and priced at $40 (as is the VGA cable). Want optical audio with your HDMI? That adapter's proprietary, too -- and $50. In fairness, PS3s don't ship with HD cables either (they do have an optical audio port, though), and that's always been a joke -- a joke that Microsoft is now in on.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Elite / Arcade Bundles (August 2009)

JoystiqMicrosoft: Dropping HDMI cable gives Xbox 360 consumers 'flexibility' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscableshdhdmihdtvmicrosoftXbox-360xbox-360-eliteThu, 27 Aug 2009 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA['Avatar' game requires HDMI for 3D effects]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/avatar-game-requires-hdmi-for-3d-effects/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/avatar-game-requires-hdmi-for-3d-effects/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/avatar-game-requires-hdmi-for-3d-effects/#comments
Avatar, the upcoming Ubisoft title based on the film James Cameron could not stop talking about during E3 2009 will require an HDMI port for 3D effects, leaving early Xbox 360 owners out in the cold. Luc Duchaine, senior international brand manager for the game adaptation of James Cameron's Avatar confirmed to MTV Multiplayer that a full 1080p setup will be required to play the game with 3D effects.

Although all Xbox 360 consoles are now capable of upscaling content to resolutions as high as 1080p, the Avatar game requires a native 1080p output which is only achievable through HDMI (something that is common knowledge for 3D geeks, we're told). Users with an HDMI equipped console now only need a pair of 3D glasses included with the game and a compatible 3D 1080p, 120Hz TV set! If 3D isn't an option, the game is still playable the old-fashioned way; however, the 40-minute introduction video starring James Cameron explaining the entire Avatar universe that we expect to see when the game inserted into our console will be slightly less awesome.

Gallery: James Cameron's Avatar (Concept Art)

Joystiq'Avatar' game requires HDMI for 3D effects originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d-displayavatarhdmijames-cameronjames-camerons-avatarubisoftFri, 31 Jul 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 dash update to bring HDMI audio fix ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/xbox-360-dash-update-to-bring-hdmi-audio-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/xbox-360-dash-update-to-bring-hdmi-audio-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/xbox-360-dash-update-to-bring-hdmi-audio-fix/#commentsThose not experiencing audio from their Xbox 360 HDMI connections may soon find their complaints silenced.

Major Nelson just informed us that a mandatory 360 dashboard update will be released this Tuesday morning at 2:00AM pacific, and will fix the HDMI audio problems some have been experiencing. As always, dashboard updates will only begin rolling out at 2:00AM pacific, so it may take a while before actually being prompted to download.

JoystiqXbox 360 dash update to bring HDMI audio fix originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatehdmimicrosoftupdatex3f-twitterxbox-360Mon, 02 Feb 2009 20:57:00 EST<![CDATA[NXE audio issues continue to fire up forum users, Microsoft still working on a fix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/nxe-audio-issues-continue-to-fire-up-forum-users-microsoft-stil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/nxe-audio-issues-continue-to-fire-up-forum-users-microsoft-stil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/nxe-audio-issues-continue-to-fire-up-forum-users-microsoft-stil/#commentsFiled under:


When the switch was flipped to release the New Xbox Experience (NXE) everyone at X3F HQ was huddled around a candle, hoping that Xbox Live wouldn't ... you know, explode! Thankfully, the NXE was released and the Live service continued to run strong, for the most part. However, not everyone had a rosy experience. Some Xbox users connected throughout HDMI noticed an issue, the NXE would not play audio via an HDMI connection. While this isn't news, users that have been hit with the audio issue have taken to the Xbox.com forum, now threatening to take the issue to the the Better Business Bureau and contact consumer advocacy groups due to Microsoft's refusal to address the problems.

Only, Microsoft did address the NXE/HDMI problem. On December 2, X3F reported that Microsoft admitted the NXE had caused the HDMI audio issue for some users and are currently working on a fix in a story on ShackNews. While they don't get points for speed -- actually, maybe they do ... we don't know how long it takes to fix these things -- Microsoft has admitted the problem and aren't leaving anyone out in the cold. Get it? 'Cuz it's December. Never mind, you seem upset.

[Ed. Note: Story edited to clarify the audio issue has only hit some HDMI users]

JoystiqNXE audio issues continue to fire up forum users, Microsoft still working on a fix originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiohdmihdmi-audionxetechnicaltechnical-issuesWed, 17 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft working to fix NXE audio issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-working-to-fix-nxe-audio-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-working-to-fix-nxe-audio-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-working-to-fix-nxe-audio-issues/#commentsFiled under:

Some Xbox 360 users who updated to the New Xbox Experience have reported hearing only the sounds of silence through their HDMI cables (the phenomenon, not the song). The problem appears to be caused with older monitors and devices that are not compatible with a new HDCP driver found in NXE.

Speaking to Shacknews, Microsoft said, "We are aware that a handful of Xbox LIVE users are experiencing audio issues, and are diligently monitoring this issue and working towards a solution." No timeframe for the fix was given; in the meantime, you might want to dust off those antiquated component cables.

JoystiqMicrosoft working to fix NXE audio issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiohdcphdminew-xbox-experiencenxeXbox-360Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MS admits to 360 audio problems caused by NXE, working towards a 'solution']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/ms-admits-to-360-audio-problems-caused-by-nxe-working-towards-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/ms-admits-to-360-audio-problems-caused-by-nxe-working-towards-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/ms-admits-to-360-audio-problems-caused-by-nxe-working-towards-a/#commentsFiled under:


Looks like the audiophiles over at the AVS forums weren't wrong about the New Xbox Experience killing some gamers' Xbox 360 audio (did you really doubt 'em?), because Microsoft has officially acknowledged the problem and promises a "solution" in the near future.

"We are aware that a handful of Xbox LIVE users are experiencing audio issues" a Microsoft rep informed Shacknews, promising that they're "diligently monitoring this issue and working towards a solution." According to numerous internet reports, after the NXE update was released a few weeks back, some Xbox 360 HDMI users lost all game audio.

Gaming without sound is no fun. Hopefully we can haz the NXE caused HDMI audio problems fixed soon.

JoystiqMS admits to 360 audio problems caused by NXE, working towards a 'solution' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiodashboard-updatefall-updatehdminew-xbox-experiencenxeTue, 02 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NXE reportedly causes sound issues for HDMI users]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/nxe-reportedly-causes-sound-issues-for-hdmi-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/nxe-reportedly-causes-sound-issues-for-hdmi-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/nxe-reportedly-causes-sound-issues-for-hdmi-users/#commentsFiled under:


There's quite a thread going at the AVForums in which several 360 owners are saying that the New Xbox Experience has caused their Xbox 360 consoles to lose all sound. The problem seems to be isolated to those who use HDMI to connect the console to their television sets, although one user has complained of the same problem using a SCART connection. For the moment, a quick fix has been discovered that seems to work for many people. If you are experiencing this glitch try the following:
  • While the Xbox 360 is turned off, remove the hard drive.
  • Turn on the Xbox 360.
  • Once the Dashboard loads, replace the hard drive.
Reportedly, this fix only lasts while the Xbox is on. Once you turn it off, you'll have to repeat the steps above to make the sound work again. We've contacted Microsoft and the company is aware of the issue. We'll update this post when we receive more information.

[Thanks, Daniel H]

JoystiqNXE reportedly causes sound issues for HDMI users originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdminew-xbox-experiencenxeFri, 21 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't panic: NXE will stream Netflix HD via component cables]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/dont-panic-nxe-will-stream-netflix-hd-via-component-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/dont-panic-nxe-will-stream-netflix-hd-via-component-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/dont-panic-nxe-will-stream-netflix-hd-via-component-connection/#commentsFiled under:


For those of us with HD displays, the revelation that the Netflix component of Xbox 360's New Xbox Experience would stream HD video via the intertubes was just spiffy. Then came various reports that said feature would only be available in situations where the 360 was connected to an HDCP-compliant display via HDMI. Even then, the scuttlebutt was that older 360s might not be up to snuff. Not true, as our pals at Engadget have found.

They've tested a 360 connected via component cables and confirmed that it displays the Netflix HD content just fine, as you can see in the above photo. It should be noted that those with older HD sets, which only have DVI inputs, may encounter problems using HDMI-to-DVI converters, since the 360 can't make the necessary HDCP "handshake" in that configuration. As Engadget points out, it's still possible to use the 360's optional VGA output in this case. For most HD display owners, though, insert a big sigh of relief here.

JoystiqDon't panic: NXE will stream Netflix HD via component cables originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>componentdvihdmihdtvnetflixnetflix-hdnew-xbox-experiencenxeXbox-360Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Gametrailers.com listens, compares component and HDMI]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/gametrailers-compares-ps3s-component-vs-hdmi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/gametrailers-compares-ps3s-component-vs-hdmi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/gametrailers-compares-ps3s-component-vs-hdmi/#commentsFiled under:

As many of you know, Gametrailers recently came under quite a bit of scrutiny when it was learned that the PS3 and Xbox 360 comparison videos they've been posting were used at the PS3's default video settings and using component cables. To silence its critics, Gametrailers posted a video comparing Uncharted: Drake's Fortune using standard component cables like they have in the past and what many PS3 owners have wanted - HDMI, full RGB and with adjusted ultra white levels.

After watching the video several times, we have to say, it's kinda hard to tell a difference. In the end, this whole controversy might have been a bit overblown, but we think it'd probably be smart on Gametrailer's part to just use the HDMI settings in any future comparison videos. It just might save you guys a lot of hate mail.

JoystiqGametrailers.com listens, compares component and HDMI originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Jan 2008 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>componentgametrailershdmiuncharteduncharted-drakes-fortuneSat, 19 Jan 2008 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[MadCatz HDMI converter sells for $90 next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/madcatz-hdmi-converter-sells-for-90-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/madcatz-hdmi-converter-sells-for-90-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/madcatz-hdmi-converter-sells-for-90-next-month/#commentsFiled under:


We have to agree with Joystiq that we're not quite sure to whom the MadCatz HDMI Conversion Kit is supposed to appeal. Of course, not all 360s have HDMI, but we're willing to bet that anyone who really cares about HDMI probably won't want a converter. We're no technical wizards, but we know that unless the signal is HDMI to begin with, it's not really HDMI anyway. It does scale to 1080p, but so does every other available 360 connection option. We suppose there is the possibility that it's simply more convenient, as it replaces multiple RCA connector with one HDMI connector and an optional optical cable. Even then, $90 seems a bit steep just to clear up some cable clutter. Then again, if you're rocking a 1080p TV, another $90 probably isn't that much. Should you desire one of the wonder-devices, they go on sale beginning in January.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqMadCatz HDMI converter sells for $90 next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdmimadcatzperipheralsThu, 20 Dec 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MadCatz Xbox 360 HDMI Conversion Kit, $90 in Jan.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/madcatz-xbox-360-hdmi-conversion-kit-90-in-jan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/madcatz-xbox-360-hdmi-conversion-kit-90-in-jan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/madcatz-xbox-360-hdmi-conversion-kit-90-in-jan/#commentsFiled under: ,


We're not sure who the market for these things is. On the one hand, every new Xbox 360 comes with an HDMI port built-in. On the other hand, if you've got an older system, it's more or less guaranteed to fail and the system you get back just may have an HDMI port in it. Process of elimination leaves people who've already had their 360 replaced and are left with fully functioning - yet cruelly HDMI-less - consoles, so we'll direct the remainder of this post to that no doubt highly lucrative demographic.

If staring longingly at your pal's HDMI connection has you feeling like less of a man, then consider MadCatz's HDMI Conversion Kit, available in January for the low, low price of $89.99. The device supports resolutions up to 1080p, includes an optical audio port, and comes with both HDMI and optical audio cables. Isn't that worth it for a strong, thick digital video signal?

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqMadCatz Xbox 360 HDMI Conversion Kit, $90 in Jan. originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cableHDMIHDMI-Conversion-KitMadCatzXbox-360Thu, 20 Dec 2007 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stranglehold for the cheap and HDMI 360s]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/stranglehold-for-the-cheap-and-hdmi-360s/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/stranglehold-for-the-cheap-and-hdmi-360s/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/stranglehold-for-the-cheap-and-hdmi-360s/#commentsFiled under:

It's that time again when we open up the Sunday newspaper, gather up all the retail ads and painstakingly look for the best gaming deals this week has to offer. So, enough setup already ... let's get to it.

One of this week's best new release deals is at Circuit City where they're offering Stranglehold for only $47.99. That's a $12 savings which is quite the deal. We couldn't find any other software deals, but ran across Circuit City's 2-day Labor Day special (Sunday and Monday only) on a Premium 360 where they'll throw in a copy of Rockstar's Table Tennis and a wireless controller for free. Nothing amazing, but it's something. Finally, for those of you who want to be guaranteed a HDMI connection on your 360, Best Buy is advertising the "new" Xbox 360 Premium w/HDMI SKU. It's a very nice gesture that prevents online orderers from getting an old, HDMI-less 360.

That's all the noteworthy deals we could find in this week's Sunday ads, but we're sure you've come across other deals online so feel free to share with your fellow fanboys. You know, because sharing is the right thing to do.

JoystiqStranglehold for the cheap and HDMI 360s originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Sep 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bestbuycircuitcitydealsandbargainshdmistrangleholdSun, 02 Sep 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[HDMI Xbox 360 Pro missing audio adapter, what to do?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/hdmi-xbox-360-pro-missing-audio-adapter-what-to-do/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/hdmi-xbox-360-pro-missing-audio-adapter-what-to-do/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/hdmi-xbox-360-pro-missing-audio-adapter-what-to-do/#commentsFiled under:


If you or a loved one have been thinking of trading that glitchy Xbox 360 console for one of the newer HDMI-equipped models with the (thus far) more reliable Zephyr motherboard, you should be aware of what isn't included in this offering. While the premium experience of the Xbox 360 Elite nets you that 120GB hard drive and "elite" black casing, it also buys you an HDMI cable and an "audio adapter connector" that extracts either stereo or digital audio out of the box, if you're not into the whole HDMI audio thing.

There are two solutions for those of you with external stereo systems that don't support HDMI: 1) Buy the $50 HDMI cable with adapter or 2) switch your HDTV's audio setting to reroute audio from the internal speakers out to the stereo, as described by Joe Hutsko. If your setup requires the $50 adapter (with HDMI cable!), you can either consider the Elite and its massive hard drive for only $50 more or just hit eBay for someone else's leftovers. Just sayin'.

JoystiqHDMI Xbox 360 Pro missing audio adapter, what to do? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Aug 2007 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDMIXbox-360ZephyrFri, 31 Aug 2007 14:16:00 EST<![CDATA[HDMI 360s at Best Buy have their own SKU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/hdmi-360s-at-best-buy-have-their-own-sku/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/hdmi-360s-at-best-buy-have-their-own-sku/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/hdmi-360s-at-best-buy-have-their-own-sku/#commentsFiled under:


X3F Reader and Best Buy employee Zathu hit us up with some sage wisdom for those hunting down HDMI capable Xbox 360s. According to Zathu, his store got a fresh batch of them, and noticed that they have their own SKU and UPC, and anyone can simply ask their local Best Buy if they have SKU 8493838 in stock. He also notes that they should have a seperate price tag denoting the HDMIness of the console for easy pick'ns. That should assist any of you looking to get your hands on one.

[Thanks, Zathu]

JoystiqHDMI 360s at Best Buy have their own SKU originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BestBuyhdmiXbox360Tue, 14 Aug 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No Falcon technology in HDMI Premiums]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/12/no-falcon-technology-in-hdmi-premiums/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/12/no-falcon-technology-in-hdmi-premiums/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/12/no-falcon-technology-in-hdmi-premiums/#commentsFiled under:

Over on the NeoGAF forums, forum member wonderkins posted pictures of his freshly cracked open HDMI featured Xbox 360 Premium console to see if it had the new heatsink or the new 65nm chips. His findings were that the latest 360s rolling off the assembly lines do feature an extra heatsink, but they do not include any new 65nm "Falcon" technology just yet. We know that some of our fellow fanboys are huge tech buffs and will be sad to hear that news, because all they've wanted for their mid-August Christmas has been Xbox 360 65nm tech. But keep your chin up eager 65nm hopefuls, because the technology is guaranteed to be rolling out within' a few months, so you'll just have to wait a little bit longer.

[Thanks, Ryan Hartman]

JoystiqNo Falcon technology in HDMI Premiums originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falconhdmipremiumxbox360Sun, 12 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Look on the box, confirm HDMI, make purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/look-on-the-box-confirm-hdmi-make-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/look-on-the-box-confirm-hdmi-make-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/look-on-the-box-confirm-hdmi-make-purchase/#commentsFiled under:

We know everyone who's in the market for a new Xbox 360 wants a fancy schmancy HDMI port in their Premium, but may not know how to identify these new consoles. Well, good news for you, because it's quite easy to identify them in the wild. Xbox-Scene found an Xbox 360 Premium box that featured the HDMI connection and confirmed that under the contents section of the box it lists "HDMI port" as a console specification. No, it isn't as obvious as a huge reflective sticker plastered on the front of the box as we expected, but at least you don't have to play the guessing game when it comes to identifying a HDMI Premium.

JoystiqLook on the box, confirm HDMI, make purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdmipremiumxbox360Fri, 10 Aug 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spot the HDMI-enabled Xbox 360 Premium at retail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/spot-the-hdmi-enabled-xbox-360-premium-at-retail/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/spot-the-hdmi-enabled-xbox-360-premium-at-retail/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/spot-the-hdmi-enabled-xbox-360-premium-at-retail/#commentsFiled under:


After discovering that some newly price-dropped Xbox 360 Premium units were packing HDMI ports - a feature previously reserved for the more expensive Elite model - we immediately wanted to know how savvy shoppers could track down these beasts at retail. Thanks to some pics snapped by anonymous Photobucketer "wonderkins" you can clearly see that the HDMI models are labeled as such. See, right there: "HDMI port."

The packaging has more details, however, on what exactly is inside the case. A label clearly refers to the model as "Zephyr" - the codename for the Elite motherboard. It would appear that the purported 65nm "Falcon" motherboard has yet to make it into stores so, for know, HDMI and an improved heatsink is all you're getting.

Continue reading Spot the HDMI-enabled Xbox 360 Premium at retail

JoystiqSpot the HDMI-enabled Xbox 360 Premium at retail originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDMIXbox-360ZephyrFri, 10 Aug 2007 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon selling Xbox 360 for $330]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/amazon-selling-xbox-360-for-330/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/amazon-selling-xbox-360-for-330/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/amazon-selling-xbox-360-for-330/#commentsFiled under: ,

Apparently cutting $50 off of the price of the Xbox 360 Pro yesterday just wasn't enough for Amazon.com. Like Fancy's mother painting her soon-to-be-harlot daughter's face and jamming her into high heels, the online retailer is doing what it can to unload the systems on well-heeled callers. In this case, they've cut the price an additional $20, selling the systems for $329.99.

We don't know exactly why they're trying to clear some 360s out of their stockroom, but, were we in a betting mood, we'd bet that it has something to do with the invading 360s that include HDMI connections. Out with the old, in with the new, as it were. There's no similar sale on Elite or Core models. If you don't yet have a 360 though, it's a fine bargain. We don't know how long it'll last though, so you may want to act fast.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqAmazon selling Xbox 360 for $330 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncoreelitehdmipricecutXbox-360xbox360Thu, 09 Aug 2007 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[HDMI confirmed in new 360 Premiums]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-confirmed-in-new-360-premiums/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-confirmed-in-new-360-premiums/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-confirmed-in-new-360-premiums/#commentsFiled under: ,


It don't get much more official than this folks. It seems someone purchased an Xbox 360 Premium system from an Atlanta Target today, only to find out that it includes an HDMI port (confirming the rumor we posted just today). Shacknews has confirmed with Microsoft that Xbox 360 consoles will now include HDMI ports and that are gradually finding their way into retail outlets. Microsoft is currently mum on whether or not the HDMI port will make it into the Core System (then again, why would it be if the Core is on the way out, right?). Also unknown is if the inclusion of HDMI also means users can expect the new 360s to have the smaller, cooler 65nm chips. Considering the magnitude of the addition of HDMI, the 65nm chips would definitely make sense. If the above image is any indication, the port should appear on consoles manufactured on July 4th or later. If anyone out there is willing to check for the 65nm processor, be sure and send the proof our way.

[Via Joystiq. Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqHDMI confirmed in new 360 Premiums originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360redesign65nmfalconhdmiWed, 08 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[HDMI Premium Xbox 360 caught on camera]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-premium-xbox-360-potentially-caught-on-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-premium-xbox-360-potentially-caught-on-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-premium-xbox-360-potentially-caught-on-film/#commentsFiled under: ,

hdmi'd
Update: Shack is reporting that Microsoft has confirmed the inclusion of HDMI in Xbox 360 consoles (sorry, no Core model for now) stating, "Retailers are gradually introducing HDMI-enabled Xbox 360s into the channel to meet demand." Still no word on whether these systems use the new 65nm processors (is the power supply different?) Any retail employees able to survey the outside of one of the new Xbox 360 boxes and share tips on spotting them with the class?

Following renewed grumblings of a quiet initiative to install HDMI ports into all Xbox 360 SKUs, comes a convincing set of images that appears to show an HDMI-equipped Premium unit, manufactured on July 4th. The images allegedly originate from a Shacknews community member who purchased the console today at a Target in Atlanta, Georgia for the newly discounted price. Hey dude, mind crackin' it open and checking for the 65nm chipset?

JoystiqHDMI Premium Xbox 360 caught on camera originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewshdmiXbox-360xbox360Wed, 08 Aug 2007 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: All Xbox 360 models will include HDMI]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/rumor-all-xbox-360-models-will-include-hdmi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/rumor-all-xbox-360-models-will-include-hdmi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/rumor-all-xbox-360-models-will-include-hdmi/#commentsFiled under:


Though Ars Technica is quick to label this a rumor, what they heard from an "inside source" sounds awfully similar to what Engadget's otherwise reliable tipster told them last March, though a bit more specific. Ars says, "a new version of the Core and Premium [Xbox 360] hardware in late August or September ... will include an HDMI port." Microsoft has never said that the Elite would be alone in having an HDMI port - in fact, the Halo 3-themed Xbox 360 will come packed with an HDMI port this September though, notably, no HDMI cable.

Of course, it's presumed that this hardware revision would also include the 65nm chips we've all been waiting for, as well as quieter DVD drives (quieter than the BenQ VAD6038?). But how will prospective purchasers discern which retail box includes the new hardware? There will apparently be a small "call out" on the packaging so savvy buyers can take their pick and casual shoppers can drain the existing inventory. C'est la vie.

JoystiqRumor: All Xbox 360 models will include HDMI originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDMIXbox-360Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[HDMI connectivity to become a 360 standard?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-connectivity-to-become-a-360-standard/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-connectivity-to-become-a-360-standard/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/hdmi-connectivity-to-become-a-360-standard/#commentsFiled under: ,

According to a (somewhat reputable) rumor mole who tipped off tech site ars technica, HDMI connectivity will be making its way into both the Core and Premium Xbox 360 models rather soon. Ars technica says that rumor talk of HDMI being added to all Xbox 360 consoles started back at E3 when the Halo 3 360 was announced and they got someone at Microsoft to admit that "HDMI will probably be standard moving forward". Now, after the price cut announcement, a rumor mole popped up telling ars technica that HDMI will be added to Core and Premium Xbox 360s starting late August, early September when a new graphic will be added to the retail packaging proclaiming the new HDMI connection.

So, will all this rumor talk of HDMI becoming a 360 standard turn out to be true? Well, we're going to err on the side of pessimism and call this bologna simply because HDMI is one of the major selling points for the Elite system. HDMI becoming standard would take a bullet point away from the Elite. But then again, we'd love to be proved wrong.

JoystiqHDMI connectivity to become a 360 standard? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdmirumorxbox360Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Third-party HDMI cable coming for non-Elite Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/third-party-hdmi-cable-coming-for-non-elite-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/third-party-hdmi-cable-coming-for-non-elite-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/third-party-hdmi-cable-coming-for-non-elite-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mod company XCM has reportedly created an HDMI cable for the regular, non-Elite white Xbox 360. According to the product page, the cable will allow you to output in 1080p. XCM told maxconsole that the product will be finished in about four weeks.

No details have been revealed as to how it will work, and if any modifications to the hardware will be necessary -- the above image is listed as conceptual, totally baffling our concept of reality. Our friends at Engadget reported when the Xbox 360 Elite came out that the visual upgrade is nigh discernible when using the HDMI cable, but we're betting someone will like the idea of using only one plug head as opposed to the five (three for video and two for audio) for component cables.

JoystiqThird-party HDMI cable coming for non-Elite Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablescomponentcompositehdmimodXbox-360xcmMon, 25 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[It could work: HDMI cable for non Elite 360s]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/it-could-work-hdmi-cable-for-non-elite-360s/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/it-could-work-hdmi-cable-for-non-elite-360s/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/it-could-work-hdmi-cable-for-non-elite-360s/#commentsFiled under: ,

Feeling the need to connect your white Xbox 360 to your television with HDMI? In other words, do you have Elite HDMI envy? Well we just might (and we emphasize might) have stumbled across a solution that'll be available in the next few months. XCM announced that they will be coming out with an adapter that'll allow your core or premium 360 to connect to a display via HDMI and in full 1080p. But be warned and don't get your hopes up too much, because XCM is the same company that created the XFPS that our very own Richard reviewed back in the day. And let's just say it was a huge disappointment. No matter, XCM will be releasing the HDMI adapter and we'll get an official opinion on this little device when judgment day arrives. But we're staying pessimistic and you aren't going to change our minds.

[Via MaxConsole]

JoystiqIt could work: HDMI cable for non Elite 360s originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elitehdmiperipheralxbox 360Xbox360Mon, 25 Jun 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 add-on allows full HD resolution for Blu-ray on DVI]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/ps3-add-on-allows-blu-ray-movies-on-dvi-monitors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/ps3-add-on-allows-blu-ray-movies-on-dvi-monitors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/ps3-add-on-allows-blu-ray-movies-on-dvi-monitors/#commentsFiled under:


For those gaming on popular computer monitors with non-HDCP DVI inputs, a gadget has been released that allows a workaround of HDCP protocols, allowing Blu-ray movies to play at full resolution on these displays. If you're a bit confused about the protocols of HDCP and how it all works, you are not alone. High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) allows content providers to prevent the full resolution of products (Blu-ray or HD-DVD) by crippling the resolution on displays where the HDCP handshake fails. Technically, all parts of the chain need to be HDCP-compliant in order for the full resolution to process. For an HDMI connection, HDCP would spring to life when an HDMI-DVI adaptor is introduced to a non-HDCP compliant DVI port, forcing the resolution to 540p at best.

The introduction of such a gadget is a welcome addition, allowing users to view the content they paid for, even though the mere fact consumers have to revert to such methods is downright infuriating. Thankfully, with ICT not being an issue until 2010, PS3 owners can enjoy Blu-ray content via HDMI, analog (component) and now, all forms of DVI. Lets hope the ICT mess gets figured out sooner rather than later, so we can get back to awaiting the latest Blu-ray releases without the fear of having high-def viewing pulled out from under us.

[Update: Edited post to point out this gadget is most useful for non-HDCP compliant DVI inputs. HDCP DVI inputs will not limit the resolution to 540p as suggested. Thanks!]

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqPS3 add-on allows full HD resolution for Blu-ray on DVI originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raydvigameswitchhdcphdcp-complianthdmihdmi-dvihigh-bandwidth digital content protectionHigh-bandwidthDigitalContentProtectionictimage constraint tokenImageConstraintTokenWed, 30 May 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 HD DVD player auto-updated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/15/xbox-360-hd-dvd-player-auto-updated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/15/xbox-360-hd-dvd-player-auto-updated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/15/xbox-360-hd-dvd-player-auto-updated/#commentsFiled under:

Those of you with Xbox 360 HD DVD drives may have noticed a quick auto-update was available for the unit as of early this morning. Don't watch high definition movies before you go to work in the morning you say? Your priorities are all messed up, we say.

To be honest, the update was quite esoteric, improving title compatibility (for CAT1 and CAT2 titles?), adding audio codec transcoding (WMA Pro is the VC1 of audio codecs?), improving network support (there was network support?), and the requisite bug squashing and performance improvements. The wonks at AVS Forums are busy poring over the update, debating the relative merits of this audio codec to that audio codec, so head over there if you're so inclined. We just hope our copies of The Matrix Trilogy -- well, the first one at least -- play flawlessly when they drop later this month.

[Via X3F]

Read - Andy Pennel's Blog
Read - AVS Forums HD DVD update feedback

JoystiqXbox 360 HD DVD player auto-updated originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2007 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDDVDHDMIXbox-360Tue, 15 May 2007 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony responds to rumors of the PlayStation 3's audio limitations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/sony-responds-to-rumors-of-the-playstation-3s-audio-limitations/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/sony-responds-to-rumors-of-the-playstation-3s-audio-limitations/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/sony-responds-to-rumors-of-the-playstation-3s-audio-limitations/#commentsFiled under: ,

Yesterday, sister site Engadget HD posted a link to a site that claimed the PlayStation 3 wasn't capable of outputting Dolby TrueHD or DTS HD, even though the PS3's HDMI 1.3 support should guarantee that. Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD are considered two of the highest-end audio formats on the market and since the PlayStation 3 is advertised as being able to support both of them, this caused a bit of an uproar amongst the more hardcore technophile PS3 owners.

Sony responded later in the day though, stating that the PS3 DID indeed support both formats - but that you have to use the PS3 to decode the signals, not a separate AV receiver. A minor bummer, but not a huge deal. Now, I just need $1600 to buy a receiver that actually supports HDMI 1.3.

[Via Engadget HD]

JoystiqSony responds to rumors of the PlayStation 3's audio limitations originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2007 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DolbyDTSHDMITrueHDWed, 09 May 2007 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Elite Q&A]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/xbox-360-elite-qanda/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/xbox-360-elite-qanda/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/xbox-360-elite-qanda/#commentsFiled under:


We've spent some quality time with the Xbox 360 Elite that arrived yesterday, and are ready to answer some of those pesky little questions that you may have lingering. Got any more? Post 'em in the comments and we'll do our best to get you an answer.

Q: What color is it?
A: It's black.

We kid, the rest of the questions are handily contained after the break. But seriously, it is black.

Continue reading Xbox 360 Elite Q&A

JoystiqXbox 360 Elite Q&A originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2007 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDMIXbox-360xbox360eliteFri, 27 Apr 2007 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Elite uses HDMI 1.2; no support for Dolby TrueHD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/xbox-360-elite-uses-hdmi-1-2-no-support-for-dolby-truehd/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/xbox-360-elite-uses-hdmi-1-2-no-support-for-dolby-truehd/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/xbox-360-elite-uses-hdmi-1-2-no-support-for-dolby-truehd/#commentsFiled under:

For audiophiles, this may hurt. For everyone else, this may induce yawning.

The Xbox 360 Elite will ship with HDMI version 1.2, as opposed to the latest version 1.3. What do you lose with such a monstrous degradation? HDMI 1.3 adds support for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio streams; this can be accomplished in HDMI 1.2 if the player can decode these streams into uncompressed audio, but unfortunately neither the Xbox 360 nor HD DVD add-on support it. (For reference, the PlayStation 3 was the first device to use HDMI 1.3.)

Other differences include audio / lip sync technology, a greater transfer speed -- which would matter if you were outputting above 1080p, but that is currently the maximum resolution -- and Deep Color, which again will be more distinguishable in future resolutions.

For now, the only major disparity will be the audio. Does this affect anyone's decision to purchase the Elite?

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqXbox 360 Elite uses HDMI 1.2; no support for Dolby TrueHD originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Apr 2007 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deep colorDeepColordolbydts hd master audioDtsHdMasterAudioelitehard wareHardWarehdhdcphdmimicrosofttrue hdTrueHdXbox-360Mon, 02 Apr 2007 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Oh the horror! Elite to use HDMI 1.2 not 1.3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/oh-the-horror-elite-to-use-hdmi-1-2-not-1-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/oh-the-horror-elite-to-use-hdmi-1-2-not-1-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/oh-the-horror-elite-to-use-hdmi-1-2-not-1-3/#commentsFiled under:


Over on the AVS forums, an insider from Microsoft let the kitty cat out of the bag on the Xbox 360 Elite's use of HDMI. According to the post, the Elite will incorporate HDMI 1.2 and not the newer 1.3 version which the PS3 uses. What's the big difference you ask? Well, not too much other than HDMI 1.3 features TrueHD and DTS-HD audio output and other small fixes where as 1.2 does not. There's a lot of technical mumbo jumbo to be read, so if you're into all that technical jazz feel free to read up on the differences. For the HDMI noobs amongst us (which we mostly all fall under) check out Wikipedia's HDMI 1.2 vs 1.3 comparison and get learnified. To those of you who are purchasing an Elite 360, does this 1.2 revelation alter your opinion or sway you away from your future Elite purchase?

[Via Gizmodo]

JoystiqOh the horror! Elite to use HDMI 1.2 not 1.3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Apr 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eliteelite 360Elite360hdmihdmi 1.2hdmi 1.3Hdmi1.2Hdmi1.3xbox 360 eliteXbox360EliteMon, 02 Apr 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Component to HDMI cables already exist, already pointless]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/component-to-hdmi-cables-already-exist-already-pointless/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/component-to-hdmi-cables-already-exist-already-pointless/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/component-to-hdmi-cables-already-exist-already-pointless/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Our BFF, Engadget, got a tip about an upcoming component to HDMI cable for the non-elite 360, and we're left shrugging our shoulders. Such adapters already exist at a steep cost; you plug component and audio cables in one end, and a single HDMI cable feeds out the other.

That's cool if you're down with OCD, but for the rest of us, why bother? One feature of HDMI is to run a digital signal for audio and video over a single cable. Connecting each audio and component feed into an analog-to-digital converter negates that one-cable, digital-only benefit.

Another "feature" of HDMI is its support for HDCP, and these adapters can't handle that copy-protected signal. What that means is someday, when a studio executive pushes a red button to turn on an Image Constraint Token for new movies, an HD-DVD enabled 360 will down-scale HD movies to DVD-quality; full quality in that future scenario will require a direct HDCP connection between a device and a TV. And some of our fancy HDTVs don't even support HDCP. Thank you, piracy panic.

Maybe Microsoft is preparing an HDMI cable to interface with the original 360's video-output port. Even then, the interface change won't impact games; it's only a convenience and movie issue.

Note that pictured adapter includes component to VGA cable.

JoystiqComponent to HDMI cables already exist, already pointless originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Mar 2007 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adapterblu-rayconvertercopy protectionCopyProtectionhd-dvdhdcphdmiXbox-360Fri, 30 Mar 2007 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Non-Elite HDMI adapter rumor resurfaces]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/non-elite-hdmi-adapter-rumor-resurfaces/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/non-elite-hdmi-adapter-rumor-resurfaces/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/non-elite-hdmi-adapter-rumor-resurfaces/#commentsFiled under:

Even with the announcement of the Xbox 360 Elite, it seems the longstanding rumor of an HDMI adapter for the regular Xbox 360 just won't die. An Engadget reader named Evan M supposedly sent Microsoft an email after learning of the HDMI enabled Xbox 360 Elite. You see, Evan just purchased an Xbox 360 Premium, and was understandably miffed on hearing of the new Elite, knowing that his television supports HDMI. Evan received a response from Microsoft stating that a component to HDMI adapter was in the works, though the support person was unsure if this device would ever be sold by itself. In other words, it could be sold with a future iteration of the original Xbox 360.

Now, customer support isn't always on top of everything, so the information can't be taken as gospel. Furthering the doubt of such an adapter, Microsoft's Andre Vrignaud, better known as Ozymandias, recently stated such an adapter is not in the works at all. Furthermore, Ozymandias states that a hardware change was required to implement HDMI in the first place, hence the creation of the Elite.

And of course, the most obvious reason to doubt an HDMI adapter, it would serve no purpose. The analog-to-digital conversion created by an adapter would likely nullify the enhanced visual fidelity of HDMI anyway. Unless the HDMI port is the only free port on the back of your television, an adapter wouldn't make any sense at all.

JoystiqNon-Elite HDMI adapter rumor resurfaces originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Mar 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360 elite360Eliteelitehdmihdmi adapterHdmiAdapterxbox 360 eliteXbox360EliteFri, 30 Mar 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dean asks: What makes HDMI so great?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/dean-asks-what-makes-hdmi-so-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/dean-asks-what-makes-hdmi-so-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/dean-asks-what-makes-hdmi-so-great/#commentsFiled under:


Journalist for the Mercury News and all around Xbox guru, Dean Takahashi, recently raised an important question. The question: who really needs HDMI? Of course, Takahashi is referring to the Xbox 360 Elite and its inclusion of an HDMI interface. Who better to answer the question than Kasey Holman, senior director of Corporate Marketing, HDMI Licensing, LLC. She couldn't be biased at all, right? Obvious sarcasm aside, Holman made the following arguments for the greatness of HDMI.
  1. HDMI provides the best video quality as there are no loss conversions involved, unlike component. The all digital signal will create sharper pictures without the ghosting or softness found through component. Smaller, high contrast details like text display this most prominently.
  2. HDMI provides superior digital audio (it supports up to 8 channels at 192kHz, uncompressed).
  3. HDMI is the future standard of High Definition content. Within a few years, content producers may activate a usage restraint token that won't allow High Definition playback over unprotected interfaces (i.e. component).
  4. Through an HDMI connection, the Xbox 360 will automatically detect the best settings for each television to which it is connected. In other words, users will no longer have to manually adjust resolutions and aspect ratios. These adjustments will be mad automatically according to the TV's specifications.
  5. HDMI sends both audio and video through the same cable, eliminating the need for separate cables. Of course, users of optical audio will beg to differ, but it does simplify things like System Link play.
There you have it, 5 reasons HDMI owns component. Anyone out there picking up the Elite solely for HDMI?

JoystiqDean asks: What makes HDMI so great? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360 elite360Eliteelitehdmixbox 360 elitexbox eliteXbox360EliteXboxEliteWed, 28 Mar 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony welcomes Xbox 360 to 'Elite' HD experience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/sony-welcomes-xbox-360-to-elite-hd-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/sony-welcomes-xbox-360-to-elite-hd-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/sony-welcomes-xbox-360-to-elite-hd-experience/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ps3 is waitingAs word spreads that tomorrow Microsoft will apparently confirm that Xbox 360 Elite is currently being manufactured in a plant somewhere in China, Sony PR sent around a welcome message, attributed to SVP of Marketing Peter Dille:

"We think every PlayStation 3 owner should have an 'elite' experience, which is why we include an internal hard drive and HDMI output in every PS3 we sell, along with the 50 GB of storage capacity on a high definition Blu-ray disc. Sony has been the strongest advocate of high definition as the future of next-generation gaming. This requires high-definition components, including HDMI output, and large storage devices to deliver and store all that rich and vivid HD content. Microsoft's announcement today [er, "tomorrow"] not only legitimizes Sony's PS3 strategy, it moves us closer to adopting universal standards in the area of high definition gaming that will benefit game developers and ultimately the end user."

Clearly Dille and Sony are eager to seize this opportunity to play the leader. Sixteen months after launch -- 12 months ahead of PS3 -- Microsoft is suddenly playing catch-up. And, as Sony points out, even the 'Elite' efforts don't necessarily match up well against PS3; certainly for consumers also interested in high-definition video (on disc). Are the facts enough to sway consumers over to Sony's side -- or does PR also need to FedEx the beer and deploy the boats to win this console war?

JoystiqSony welcomes Xbox 360 to 'Elite' HD experience originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360eliteharddrivehdhddhdmips3Xbox-360xbox360xbox360eliteTue, 27 Mar 2007 19:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft accidentally confirms HDMI?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/microsoft-accidentally-confirms-hdmi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/microsoft-accidentally-confirms-hdmi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/microsoft-accidentally-confirms-hdmi/#commentsFiled under:

With Microsoft staying hush-hush about the Xbox 360 Elite, people are looking for information anywhere they can get it. It seems the latest source of information is the official XNA Game Studio Express forum on the Microsoft Developer Network. An innocent XNA coder looking for answers seems to have confirmed more than the press could with calls and email directly to MS. The question, from forum user PAPutzback1, was simple: "Will the HDMI output on the revised 360 require any code changes? I am hoping some developers have a beta unit and can answer this question." A Microsoft employee by the name of Shawn Hargreaves responded, "No changes required." Obviously, Hargreaves' answer points to the Xbox 360 actually integrating HDMI at some point in the future, possibly confirming the existence of the Xbox 360 Elite. Our buddies at Xbox-Scene also report that their Microsoft sources have informed them that the HDMI port could be worked into Core and Premium 360s by June.

Granted, Game Informer has already stated that it doesn't print false stories in its April issue, but this is the closest we've gotten to official confirmation from Microsoft. Take it for what you will.

[Via Xbox-Scene]

See also:
Xbox 360 120GB HDD advertising appears

JoystiqMicrosoft accidentally confirms HDMI? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2007 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360 elite360Eliteeliteelite 360Elite360hdmixbox 360 eliteXbox360EliteMon, 26 Mar 2007 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA["Zephyr" Xbox 360 rumors correct; coming late April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/20/zephyr-xbox-360-rumors-correct-coming-late-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/20/zephyr-xbox-360-rumors-correct-coming-late-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/20/zephyr-xbox-360-rumors-correct-coming-late-april/#commentsFiled under:

Game Informer's April issue confirms the mountain of rumors about the "Zephyr" Xbox 360. The Black, 120 GB HDD, HDMI enabled Xbox 360. Yeah, that one. Also worth noting is that the magazine has a policy of not writing fake stories in their April issue, as well as confirming that the story is indeed true. So, we're looking at a third Xbox 360 SKU in late April priced around $479 USD, which still has the standard DVD drive. After all, they already have a Black HD DVD player model produced. How do you current 360 owners feel about this? Are you going to buy a new console to take advantage of its 1080p via HDMI goodness? At least it comes with an HDMI cable.

Apparently, the 120 GB HDD will also be available for sale separately for "under $200", but the same can be said for the HD DVD player. Hopefully it will follow suit of the memory units and take the 20 GB HDD's price, bumping the previous drive's cost for consumers down. We've got scans of the magazine for your viewing pleasure after the break.

Continue reading "Zephyr" Xbox 360 rumors correct; coming late April

Joystiq"Zephyr" Xbox 360 rumors correct; coming late April originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>H D M IHDMIXbox 360Xbox360ZephyrTue, 20 Mar 2007 12:45:00 EST