Next Xbox will not function unless Kinect is connected, requires mandatory installs – rumour

Fresh rumours about Microsoft’s Next Xbox suggest that the machine will not operate unless the latest version of Kinect is connected.

That’s according to Kotaku, which has word from anonymous source SuperDaE. He’s the fella who last year made a name for himself trying to sell a Durango development kit on eBay.

He says that a new version of Kinect will be bundled with Xbox 720 and must be connected before the user can access any of the machine’s features. Kinect v2 is said to be significantly improved over the current model with the ability to track thumbs and even, supposedly, read your expression.

An improved viewing angle means that the camera will no longer have to perform its ceremonial nod upon booting up, either. It’s also able to track up to six skeletons simultaneously.

It is also claimed that the machine will ship with a 500GB HDD and require that all games are installed. Interestingly, players will be able to play titles without an install delay, with the installation taking place in the background.

Another new feature will be the option of running several games or apps simultaneously, with players able to suspend software in something like a paused state and return to it at a later point.

The controller is described as a natural evolution” of the pad we know and love with much the same aesthetic design and a few changes to the wireless tech.

Bigger plans have apparently been hatched for Microsoft’s Companion App claims, with an increased level of interaction with smartphones and tablets offered.

SuperDaE did not, however, mention the machine’s rumoured demand for a permanent internet connection, although other Kotaku sources have apparently confirmed this detail.

The New Xbox looks on track to be out by the end of the year.