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XBOX HAS DECIDED to release a cheaper Xbox One without Kinect on June 9th, pricing it at $399, putting it in the same price range as the PS4.
Despite saying that all Xbox One consoles will have Kinect included when it was launched, Microsoft has now decided that releasing one without the motion sensing device is the way to go.
Every market where the Xbox One is now available will receive the new version while a standalone Kinect for the console will be released during Autumn.
The company says that more than 80 per cent of Xbox One owners are using Kinect, with an average of 120 voice commands per month on each console.
Alongside this announcement, Microsoft also revealed it will be making changes to its Xbox Live service. The company has dropped the requirement for an Xbox Live Gold subscription for streaming apps meaning both Xbox 360 and Xbox One owners can access apps like Netflix, Skype, and Internet Explorer directly.
In a video announcing the change, Microsoft’s head of Xbox, Phil Spencer said that the new Xbox One is a response to feedback given by fans, but will continue to work on Kinect.
We’ve also heard from people they just like to play games with a controller in their hands…we’ll continue to innovate on Kinect. It’s an important differentiator for us. but I also know there are people out there that want to make the choice when they want to make it.
Alongside this announcement, Microsoft also revealed it will be making changes to its Xbox Live service. The company has dropped the requirement for an Xbox Live Gold subscription for streaming apps meaning both Xbox 360 and Xbox One owners can access apps like Netflix, Skype, and Internet Explorer directly.
The current Xbox One with Kinect is currently on sale here for €499, €100 more than the PS4, and it’s expected the new version will retail for €399 when it arrives.
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