The new CPU should reduce heat and power consumption – and perhaps even increase the console’s speed.


Microsoft is set to upgrade the processor used in the Xbox 360, its manufacturer has announced. From the first quarter of 2007 new chips will be used as the beating heart of the console.


Why? Well, there have been reports of 360s overheating and freezing up, despite the use of heavy duty cooling fans and heat pipes. One console owner has even begun legal proceedings against Microsoft, alleging that the existing CPU and power supply unit are prone to overheating.


Unsurprisingly, Microsoft is keen to play down such reports, but in any case, the new CPU will reduce power consumption and run slightly cooler than the existing one – and may potentially increase the console’s speed to boot.


Of course, there’s also the small matter of production costs, which are likely to drop as a result of the switch. So everyone wins.

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