Microsoft reportedly testing new chip for upgraded Xbox One
A new report suggests an upgraded Xbox One could be in the works. This news comes at the heels of reports about an upgraded PlayStation 4 codenamed "Neo."
Unidentified sources told The Verge Microsoft has been testing various prototypes of Xbox devices, some of which were tested with upgraded components. These components are reportedly the same ones used to improve performance of a PC gaming rig.
The report did not specify what components sources referred to. However, that's another piece of the puzzle that's seemingly "solved," thanks to NeoGAF member ekim who spotted several interesting filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The forum user basically discovered that Microsoft is testing a new Xbox One wireless chip with the new model number 1525.
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The FCC is responsible for approving devices like the Xbox One. The commission has been the source of leaks in the past, for instance, revealing new phones before their official launch. However, due to a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) between the company and the FCC, external photos and other key details are strictly under guard and key. But the FCC's Brazilian equivalent is not so strict with NDAs regarding photos so ekim shared an image of the new chip in this thread. The NDA expires on June 25, roughly two weeks after Microsoft's Xbox conference at the E3 2016.
The Verge suggests these information is in line with Xbox head Phil Spencer's comments that the company will "come out with new hardware capability during a generation." GameSpot notes, however, that Spencer did not say it would be this generation. The publication adds that the executive had earlier stated consumers should not expect to receive "a screwdriver set with every console that comes out."
It's also worth noting that experiments like this are not uncommon. In the past, Microsoft tested many prototypes for the Xbox One as well as for its controller before deciding on the final product to launch to the market.
A Microsoft representative told GameSpot that the company does not comment on rumors or speculation. Fans should find out whether or not an upgraded Xbox One is in the company's plans as E3 2016 approaches or during the event itself.
