Microsoft announces 1TB Xbox One, new controller, and Wireless Adapter for Windows
As someone who just bought a 500GB Xbox One -- the white Halo edition -- I can attest to the awesome capabilities that the console offers. Not only have I been using it to play amazing games like Ori and the Blind Forest, but for watching movies and TV too. Everybody Loves Raymond full series on Netflix? Sweet!
Today, however my new purchase loses a little luster. You see, Microsoft announces an all-new 1TB variant -- double the storage -- in a new matte-black for $399. The controller is slightly tweaked, featuring a 3.5mm jack, improved audio quality and more. Even PC gamers should be excited, as a wireless dongle for the controller is finally coming to Windows.
"Since Xbox One launched, one of the most frequent requests from fans is to add more storage to their consoles. Today, we're unveiling the Xbox One 1TB console, with a new matte finish and more storage for your games and media, making it the best place to play the biggest blockbusters this holiday like Halo 5: Guardians, Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Forza Motorsport 6. Only Xbox offers the most choice when it comes to storage options, now with increased on-board storage as well as the capability to extend game storage by adding an external USB 3.0 drive", says Major Nelson.
By comparison, the PlayStation 4 allows users to upgrade the internal hard drive, but not add external variants. Microsoft's solution is preferable, as you can use both the internal drive and external drive together.
Nelson details the new controller by saying, "in addition to audio improvements, we've fine-tuned the bumpers for more consistent performance anywhere along the full surface of the bumper. And we've enabled wireless firmware updates on the updated controller which eliminates having to connect the controller via USB cable to receive updates. What's more, fans will be able to purchase the new controller as a standalone item in black as well as a new camouflage design in silver and black with the Xbox One Special Edition Covert Forces Wireless Controller".
Grrr. I wasn't mad about my newly bought controller (see White 500GB unboxing above) becoming "old" when the only rumored difference was a 3.5mm jack, but improvements to the bumpers and wireless firmware updates make me mad. Oh well, first world problems, I suppose. Maybe I will buy the cool Covert Forces controller in the future.
The wireless dongle is great for those who want to sit far away from their gaming PC, such as in a living room with an HTPC. Otherwise, the Xbox One controller already works when connected by USB. With that said, $24.99 is not a lot to spend for the convenience.
If you have yet to invest in Xbox One, will this new 1TB variant get you to pull the trigger? Tell me in the comments. Remember, as an added bonus, Halo: Master Chief Collection will be included for a limited time.