Announced by Microsoft at E3 last month, the Xbox One S is an iterative update to the Xbox One. At 40 percent smaller than the original Xbox One, Microsoft has substantially reduced the console’s footprint to enable it to fit into more spaces in living rooms around the world.
The console is currently available only in white. Microsoft hasn’t indicated whether a black version is on the way. It has already unveiled a customised version of the Xbox One S though — the Gears of War 4 edition — that features a unique design inspired by the game.
The Xbox One S enables players to experience more visual depth in games, benefiting from a higher contrast ratio achieved through the use of HDR. Available in select games, HDR (high dynamic range) makes it possible to render deep dark colours and bright lights side-by-side, enhancing the fidelity of colour and bringing out the details in shaded areas.
HDR is also available when watching videos. Additionally, 4K content is now available to stream, making the Xbox One S one of few media systems that is able to view 4K media. Microsoft says it provides the “clearest, most realistic” video possible.
“With the biggest blockbuster lineup of games in Xbox history coming to Xbox One and Windows 10 this year, platform updates to help you stay connected with friends on Xbox Live with even more games across your favorite devices and more hardware options available, 2016 and beyond is looking to be an incredible time to be an Xbox gamer,” said Microsoft.
Alongside the hardware changes, Microsoft is debuting a subtly revised Xbox Wireless Controller that has a stronger wireless signal and a textured grip for more comfort. It will supersede the current controller and become available for individual purchase on August 2.
The Xbox One S will launch in markets worldwide on August 2, the same day that Microsoft will begin to roll out the Windows 10 Anniversary Update to millions of PC gamers around the world. To celebrate the launch of the new console, Microsoft has created limited quantities of a special 2TB version, giving you double the storage for games and media.
The Xbox One S launch edition will be available in 26 regions worldwide including the United States, the UK, Canada and Australia. It will cost $399, a $50 premium over the standard 1TB console. Microsoft will also offer a basic 500GB version for $299.
The 500GB and 1TB consoles will launch after the 2TB edition. Microsoft said it will reveal availability information for these anticipated versions “soon,” allowing Xbox gamers to plan when they need to save for new hardware.
Pre-orders of the Xbox One S will begin to ship to customers on August 2. Microsoft urged people who want to buy the launch edition to do so soon as availability is limited and demand is high. The Xbox One S is the first change to the Xbox One’s hardware since the launch of the 1TB version in June 2015. It will be followed by a heavily upgraded “Scorpio” model next year.
