Microsoft admits to “unacceptable” 360 hardware problems

Xbox 360 platform holder Microsoft has admitted that the number of its consoles needing repair is “unacceptable”, and has set aside $1 billion for a new customer care scheme that includes extending the machine’s warranty period to three years and reimbursing anyone who has previously paid for their console to be repaired.

Microsoft’s corporate vice president Peter Moore issued an open letter to the Xbox community stating that: “Microsoft has identified several factors that can cause a general hardware failure indicated by three flashing red lights on the console.

"To address this issue, and as part of our ongoing work, we have already made certain improvements to the console.

"As of today, all Xbox 360 consoles are covered by an enhanced warranty program to address specifically the general hardware failures indicated by the three flashing red lights on the console. This applies to new and previously-sold consoles."

"Microsoft stands behind its products and takes responsibility to ensure that every Xbox 360 console owner continues to have a fantastic gaming experience.”