Xbox 360 Does 1080p: A Microsoft 'Surprise' for Sony (News)

GamePro staff, GamePro

26/09/2006 16:52:05

A software update for the Xbox 360, to be available for download later this year, will enable the console to display Sony's coveted true-HD 1080p resolution.

The press release from Tokyo Game Show revealed that the update would allow the Xbox 360 "to output game and movie content in 1080p resolution."

Kotaku had a chance to speak with Shane Kim, VP of Microsoft Game Studios, who clarified that sans HDMI, the console will "output either through VGA or component." Although there was "no HDMI announcement now," Kim hinted, "we do have the capability to deliver the software and, if needed, the hardware."

When asked about the movie studios that would incorporate copy protection through HDMI, Kim acknowledged that the properties with copy protection would then require HDMI.

While 1080p sounds nice, Kim reiterated Microsoft's standpoint that "720p is the sweet-spot for high definition," adding that Microsoft Games Studios will continue to work at that medium.