HDMI, Now Available in White

This is one thing I am rather surprised about, but new Xbox 360 premium models have been landing on store shelves with HDMI ports. The formerly Elite exclusive feature is now out on the recently reduced model. While there has been no confirmation of any other enhancements it is likely we are will see reports of better cooling systems and maybe 65 nanometer chips. The systems are still just arriving so all stores may not have hem, but if you are looking it will be listed on the side of the console, under the product description.

As an early adopter I do feel a little bit stung by this, however it's important to keep in mind that HDMI is not required for 1080p and most TVs have component-in. This really does 2 things for Microsoft this holiday. It gives them another box to check off the list, but for those buyers that follow this sort of thing it is evidence that change has happened to the main box. Building customer confidence is the last step Microsoft really has to take before they have all their bases loaded. The 3 year warranty will help, but solid changes to the architecture is inevitably the real solution.

For other early adopters that care, there is still a way (if my theory is correct), that you can get an HDMI port on your existing console. If your console breaks down, and you send it in to Microsoft you are entitled to (I am quoting the warranty brochure), "A new system with all the latest features". If you quote that line and follow up enough it should work out in your favour. However, this will only apply when your system is broken, if you have a working unit it will be sent back almost immediately. Yes, you can see I have dealt with customer service plenty.