Microsoft gives first key details on new Xbox

Microsoft Corp on Wednesday gave some of the first key details on the next generation of its Xbox video game system, which will include an emphasis on high-definition content, an integrated media browser and "microtransactions" for in-game purchases. In a speech at the Game Developers Conference here, J. Allard, the Microsoft executive overseeing the software development tools for the new Xbox, said the new Web browser would draw more users to the platform. Microsoft is expected to release the new Xbox in time for the 2005 holidays, but the company has kept mum so far.
"We've got to create a consistent experience so that consumers can enter our worlds much more easily," he told a packed convention center audience. "If we want to get to 10 or 20 million subscribers we've got to create some consistency."
Among the features Allard demonstrated was an on-screen "Gamer Card" that gives information other players can see on a gamer's location, achievements in various games, time playing specific games and level of skill.
Other features include a custom music player and a "store" where players could pay pennies to purchase new characters, parts for virtual racing cars and the like.