Rumor: Next Xbox requires always-on internet, no used games

Next Xbox concept.

The next Xbox will require an internet connection in order the function and block second-hand game-playing, according to an Edge “sources with first-hand experience of Microsoft’s next generation console.” 

Though the system is said to be “absolutely committed” to online functionality, games will still be available for purchase in physical form at retailers. These games will be sold on 50 gigabyte Blu-ray discs, ship with activation codes, and “will have no value beyond the initial user,” according to Edge.

The outlet’s source also echoed some of the specs we’ve previously heard, including: AMD eight-core x64 1.6GHz CPU, a D3D11.x 800MHz graphics solution and 8GB of DDR3 RAM. Hard-drive capacity has yet to be decided, said the site, but considering its online architecture, it suggests it will be the “largest unit it has put inside a console to date.”

“Several” sources have told Edge when it comes to next-generation devlopment, PlayStation 4 is preferable when it comes to leveraging power. Studios working on Microsoft’s new system are currently being “forced to work with only approved development libraries,” while PlayStation 4 developers are being encouraged to “get closer to the metal of its box.” Additionally, the operating system overhead of the next Xbox is said to be “more oppressive” than PlayStation 4.

Microsoft is also “investing heavily” in motion-control interfaces and are planning a new, “more incredibly responsive” Kinect to ship with the next Xbox.

Sony will also have a next-generation camera, which is said to have similar features to Kinect, and will be shown at the company’s PlayStation 4 reveal event on February 20.