The date is no longer rumor; Microsoft has revealed today in emails to both press and Xbox Live members that the next-generation Xbox will be unveiled to the masses on May 21. The event will take place at Microsoft’s Redmond, WA campus at 10 AM PST/1 PM EST.
Both emails proclaim that the event will see, “a new generation revealed.” The press email announced that Microsoft’s Dan Mattrick will be on hand, while the email sent to Xbox Live members stated that the event can be viewed by the public on Xbox.com or Xbox Live. An official hashtag for the event is named in both emails as “XboxReveal.”
“On Tuesday May 21st, we’ll mark the beginning of a new generation of games, TV and entertainment,” wrote Larry “Major Nelson” Hryb on his official blog regarding the reveal. “On that day, we’ll be holding a special press event on the Xbox campus and we invite you to join us via the live global stream that will be available on Xbox.com, Xbox LIVE and broadcast on Spike TV if you are in the US or Canada.
“On that day, we’ll share our vision for Xbox, and give you a real taste of the future. Then, 19-days later at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles, we’ll continue the conversation and showcase our full lineup of blockbuster games.”
This upcoming event will bring resolution to several rumors about the new console. Among them include cable box interaction, eye-movement detection with the new Kinect, an AMD “Jaguar” chip, lack of backwards compatibility, and the dreaded always-online requirement.
You can view the images provided in the emails for both the press and Xbox Live membership below. Let us know if you’re excited for the event and what predictions you have for the new Xbox in the comments below!
