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Microsoft Calm About HD DVD Defeat |
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Written by Daniel
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Tuesday, 19 February 2008 |
Microsoft comments on Xbox 360 HD DVD future, possibility of a Blu-ray Disc add-on
Marcus Yam (Blog) - February 19, 2008 4:51 AM
DailyTech
Amidst the recent barrage of stories regarding the future plans of HD DVD supporters Toshiba, Universal and Paramount, some may have overlooked Microsoft – another big power behind the ailing format.
The Xbox 360 is currently linked to HD DVD, as the console can attach to an add-on peripheral drive that enables the playback of HD DVD software. The drive, manufactured by Toshiba, also operates on a PC.
According to tracking firm NPD, the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on drive accessory has sold a collective 269,000 units in the U.S., making for a 3.4 percent attach rate with the console. Examining that number against the total number of HD DVD players sold in North America, the Xbox 360 accessory accounts for more than one-third of all HD DVD hardware.
Regarding sales of the HD DVD peripheral, Microsoft said it was the “biggest-selling accessory” ever sold for the console – likely measured in terms of revenue. The HD DVD drive launched in 2006 for $199, dropped to $179 in July 2007, settling today at $129.
Despite the added functionality afforded by the HD DVD add-on, Microsoft appears unconcerned about the fate of the format’s effect on the Xbox 360.
“We do not believe the recent reports about HD DVD will have any material impact on the Xbox 360 platform or our position in the marketplace,” Microsoft said in a statement. “As we've long stated, we believe it is games that sell consoles and Xbox 360 continues to have the largest next-gen games library with the most exclusives and best selling games in the industry.” [DailyTech...] [Comments...]
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