News
Report: Microsoft to Launch $99 XBox 360
By Swanni
Washington, D.C.
(May 3, 2012)
-- Microsoft will launch a $99 XBox console with a monthly
subscription, perhaps as early as next week, reports Verge.com.
The web site says the $99 4GB console would require a two-year
monthly subscription of $15. However, the package would include
the Kinect sensor and access to Microsoft's XBox Live Gold
service which features streaming video from services such as
Netflix, EPIX, Hulu Plus and ESPN.
Verge adds that the "some additional streaming content from
cable providers or sports package providers" could be included
in the package. The site did not specify which services could be
added.
If the report is true, Microsoft would clearly be looking to
compete with sub-$100 Net TV set-tops from companies such as
Roku and Apple. In addition to the gaming aspects, the XBox 360
delivers a strong streaming lineup. The combination of the two
features would make it a strong competitor in the growing
streaming category.
However, some consumers may balk at the monthly subscription and
two-year requirement. The 4GB XBox console normally costs $199
at retail. At $15 a month, the minimum cost over the two years
would be $459.
But Verge writes that Microsoft plan to offer an early
termination fee for customers who want to leave the two-year
contract early.
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