According to a new report, it looks like Microsoft will once again offer two different models of the Xbox gaming system when the company releases its next generation Xbox gaming machine, currently rumored to be called the Xbox 720. But this time it will not be two different SKUs of the same machine.
The story is being reported by The Verge and suggests that Microsoft will be releasing one console that will be next generation and feature improved graphics and other possible innovations.
But according to the report Microsoft will release a second console that will use Windows 8 as the basis of its operating system and will offer gamers a "casual experience."
The system will not be able to play the latest triple-A video games, but instead will act more like a streaming TV device. The Article notes that it will be similar to Apple TV. The system will allow a gamer to play casual downloadable games from Xbox Live and experience the entertainment apps of the service.
In the report, The Verge cites "multiple sources familiar with Redmond's plans" as the source of the news. The Verge also claims that the twin SKU approach is part of a larger Microsoft strategy that will bring its Xbox software to a variety of devices including cell phones and television sets.
The Verge reached out for a comment from Microsoft and received the following statement:
"Xbox 360 has found new ways to extend the console lifecycle by introducing controller-free experiences with Kinect and re-inventing the console with a new dashboard and new entertainment content partnerships. We are always thinking about what is next for our platform and how to continue to defy the lifecycle convention."
According to the report the two consoles will be announced next year and will likely release before the end of 2013.
In a recent eight page exposé by Xbox World Magazine suggests that the new Xbox system will feature directional audio, a Blu-Ray drive, and the second version of the motion controller Kinect.
The magazine PSM3 has released an equally large feature article about the PlayStation 4 that is said to reveal the 15 game changing features of the new console. You can purchase the issue on ITunes in the U.S. here. A recent article in TechRadar suggest that the PlayStation 4 is destine for a Holiday release in 2013 and that the system will not play used games or PS3 games.