Xbox One is getting a big storage upgrade, but with a catch.
Microsoft is readying the release of a 1TB version of its Xbox One for Nov. 3, Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, announced today during a press event at Gamescom 2014, the European video game conference now taking place in Cologne, Germany. Current models ship with half the capacity, provided by a 500GB hard-disk drive (HDD).
The upgraded hardware will be part of a limited-edition bundle that commands a $100 premium over the base Xbox One, which currently retails for $399. What’s more, the offering is being marketed to fans of a popular video game series from publisher Activision.
Dubbed the Xbox One Limited Edition “Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare” Bundle, the package will include the aforementioned 1TB HDD and a digital copy of the upcoming game. Further differentiating the hardware are a custom enclosure for the console, a special edition controller and sound effects. Notably, it lacks the formerly included Kinect sensor, which Microsoft is offering as a separate accessory this fall after launching the standalone Xbox One on June 9.
The bundle is available for preorder now ($499). Other bundled offerings (500GB) scheduled for release this fall include a $399 “Sunset Overdrive” edition and a “FIFA15” version for the European market. “These bundles offer a great opportunity to enjoy Xbox One alongside an incredible lineup of first- and third-party games,” said Spencer.
Continuing with Microsoft’s new tradition of distributing frequent updates, the company also teased that it has a long list of new features in store for current and soon-to-be Xbox One users.
In October, the company is launching the Xbox One Digital TV Tuner as part of a limited preview in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Spain. The device allows viewers to watch over-the-air digital terrestrial TV programming via USB instead of an HDMI-connected set-top cable or satellite tuner.
Owners of the Digital TV Tuner will also be among the first to experience the company’s new Stream TV to SmartGlass functionality. A future update will enable SmartGlass users, a companion app for iOS, Android and Windows, to stream live TV to their mobile devices on their home networks without interrupting game play on the main display.
A new, compact Live TV mini guide is also in the works, complementing the full-screen guide. A new Boot to TV option will allow users to immediately watch live television programming without first selecting the TV app, provided that the console is in a connected standby configuration.