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Microsoft Unveils Makeover for Xbox 360 Bluetooth Headset and Remote
Xbox 360’s good old kinda-soap-shaped white media remote that has remained as-is for 6 years now is finally getting a restyle. It has always been a must-have addition to the console’s package, making it easier and more comfortable to navigate through Netflix and DVD videos. The new remote will look less like a soap bar and more like traditional sleek remote controls, giving us more reasons not to misplace it.
The universal remote control is the only aspect of the Xbox 360 that Microsoft didn’t redesign since its launch, that is until 4 months from now, in November. Since they’re remodeling the remote control, the headset is getting a discerning eye as well. The new universal remote adopts the color and design of the new 360, boasting an all-black luster intrinsic to Microsoft merchandise. It can navigate live TV on 360 on top of being capable of controlling the Zune Marketplace and Netflix, provided that your ISP supports it. It’s also relatively cheaper than the old one, reportedly priced for as low as $20.
The universal controller is, without a doubt, an indispensable aspect of the Xbox 360. It dramatically saves time as you scroll through something like Netflix without having to worry about the hassle of a power down to sync from scratch.
Meanwhile, the new headset also takes on the design of the 360–it will be smaller than the previous one which one can fairly criticize as over-sized and costly. It will have Bluetooth capabilities which means it can be used with other wireless devices as well. A button in the middle will provide a switch back and forth between game mode and Bluetooth mode. Green light means Xbox mode, while blue light means Bluetooth mode. The new headset, however, will still use Microsoft’s radio signal for voice chat famed for being static-filled and delayed. We can only hope that apart from the design, its performance is going to be upgraded as well. The new headset will be available for $60.
Both Xbox 360 accessories will be released in the US this November in a set for 59 bucks. Here’s Major Nelson walking us through the new headset.
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