VGLeaks has posted a number of screenshots of the Next Xbox/Durango’s Development Kit installation software, as well as documentation that contains an overview of the hardware. The site, in the past, has talked at length about the hardware, but decided to move on to the software that actually powers the system. The aforementioned hardware overview details several features of the Durango, such as an always-online connection, a Blu-Ray disc drive, and mandatory game installations.
“The Durango will implement different power states so that it can always be powered on, but will draw minimal electricity when not in use. The console will be ready instantly when users want to play, and will always maintain a network connection so that console software and games are always current. With this ‘Always On, Always Connected’ design, users will quickly and easily enjoy their connected entertainment experiences, with no waiting for the console to restart or install updates.”
“Every Durango console will have a hard drive, although it’s exact capacity has not been chosen, it will be large enough, however, to hold a large number of games. All games will be installed on the hard drive. Play from the optical disc will not be supported.”
The overview continues to note how the Durango will contain an installation system that will allow players to play their game while it is being installed to the hard drive, as opposed to waiting for the install to finish. A Kinect sensor will also be included with every Durango system sold, and will be required for the console to operate.
Microsoft is rumored to be gearing up to reveal their next-gen system in April, where, hopefully, we’ll get some solid facts. Current rumors and leaks such as this don’t leave me with a positive feeling.