No doubt that this is an exciting time for Microsoft and gamers alike with the recent introduction of Xbox One to the world. A new device that isn’t just a game console anymore, Microsoft defines the new Xbox as an “all-in-one entertainment system” that will once again change the way we play games, watch TV and entertain. However nothing is always perfect, so to clarify what is and what isn’t, the software giant has answered some of most important questions where people may get confuse.
Also I added a few more questions and answers from reliable sources to complement Microsoft answers.
Q: When will Xbox One launch and in what markets?
A: Short answer: “later this year” and markets are yet to be revealed.
Q: Does Xbox One require an “always on” Internet connection?
A: No, Xbox One does not have to be connected to the internet all the time, but it does require an internet connection.
Q: Will Xbox One be backward compatible with my existing games?
A: No, because the Xbox One isn’t compatible with Xbox 360 hardware, therefore Xbox 360 games won’t play in Xbox One — here are more details.
Q: Will Xbox One allow players to trade in, purchase and play pre-owned games?
A: Yes.
Q: Will users be able to play games in another console?
A: Yes, according to Larry Hryb (a.k.a @majornelson) gamers will be able to play games they own “at a friend’s house”. However, the owner of the game must be signed in.
Q: Can I use my current gamertag on Xbox One and will my Gamerscore and Achievements transfer?
A: Yes, you can bring all these preference from the Xbox 360.
Q: Will my current Xbox Live Gold membership work with Xbox One or will I have to buy a new one?
A: Yes, there is only one Xbox Live subscription service and it will work in both, in the new Xbox One and in Xbox 360.
Q: Why require Kinect with every Xbox One?
A: Kinect 2 is part of the console, and it’s require to have a consistent experience using voice, gesture and natural sensing.
Q: Do I need to have a specific cable or satellite TV provider to watch live TV on Xbox?
A: Microsoft didn’t supply a clear answer. The company has only said that they’re working, so you don’t have this problem.
Q: Xbox One is a more powerful product compared to Xbox 360, but does it also use more power?
A: No. Xbox One can balance power efficiency thanks to various power states similar to Windows. The hardware is smart enough to only use power when is need it.
Q: Will users be able to upgrade the internal hard drive of Xbox One?
A: No. Albert Penello, Microsoft’s senior director of product planning, said to Engadget that owners will not be able to remove, replace or upgrade the internal 500 HDD. However, he didn’t mention if the company will offer a service to upgrade the storage media. Also consider that the console comes with USB 3.0 ports that allows to connect external storage drives.
Q: Is Xbox One ready for pre-order?
A: No, but Microsoft already open registrations to be notified about Xbox One pre-orders. In fact the company is giving away $10, if you sign-up today to get the notification, and you can also reserve your console in Amazon.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].