Stevewal released a new version of X-DSL on our forums (http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=667771 ) - it's a small (about 50MBs) but fully functional Linux distribution for the Xbox1, based on Damn Small Linux (http://www.damnsmalllinux.org ): [QUOTE] Xdsl 0.7 beta is based on Dsl 4.4.3 Please list any bugs you encounter, and I will fix them for the next release. [/QUOTE] Official Site and Download: http://www.x-dsl.org/wiki/Main_Page (http://www.x-dsl.org/wiki/Main_Page )

Maximus released a new version of his Xtractor Reader: [QUOTE] WHAT IS IT: * Graphical tool to allow read keys from Lite On / Benq Drives * It supports USB key dumping if using with an 360 Xtractor Tool * Also contains bonus feature as NO-SLAX ModeB command * Can work with 360 xtractor tool or other (homemade max323) adapters, even rival tools are welcome MAIN FEATURES: - Key reading on Liteon Benq Drives - key.bin/identify.bin/inquiry.bin file generation - Allow ORIGINAL / CLONE detection for 360 Xtractor Tool (R.I.P. D.France) - BONUS FEATURE: Send ModeB command to All Hitachi Drives (even 78/79) NO SLAX REQUIRED WHAT'S NEW ON 2.7: * ADDED: Detect button for COM ports so it can locate easier the Virtual com port that windows assigned to the xtractor (if using xtractor usb conection). * FIXED: Inquiry data returned zero on some sata cards. [/QUOTE] Official Site: http://www.maximusgames.net/360xtractor.php (http://www.maximusgames.net/360xtractor.php ) (thx to hitman43 for the news) Download: here (http://dwl.xbox-scene.com/xbox360pc/dvd/XtractorReader_V27.rar ) Buy Maximus 360 Xtractor ($36): gocybershopping.com (http://www.gocybershopping.com/customer/home.php?cat=275&affId=86373 )

It looks like the first Jasper motherboards (which should have the new 65nm GPU) are now out in the wild! Moddage posted pictures of his new Jasper 360 on our forums (here (http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=668038 ) and here (http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=668104 )) and we also received some pictures from The Dude Z. Both are Arcade SKUs made 10-23-2008 Lot #0843X by Team FDOU. (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/f3c460fe.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/3029fbd4.jpg ) The new power supply is now 150W (25W less than those used with Falcon boards) and the plug has of course been changed so u can't plugin this PSU into an older motherboard. (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/1127080411.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/1127081346b.jpg ) Other unannounced change ... the onboard flash chip has grown from 16MB to 256MB. Microsoft included internal memory storage, so the Arcade SKU now ships without (external) Memory Unit and the new NXE dash will install fully on the flashchip (rather than requiring a HDD or external MU). But the internal memory can also be used to store gamesave data, XBLA games, videos or whatever ... u can use it asif it was a 256MB MU. (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/jasper06.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/manual01.jpg ) The motherboard design didn't change much ... besides the bigger flash and what's probably the new 65nm GPU, we also see a new south bridge model ... the rest (videochip, CPU, heatsinks, general board layout, ...) seems pretty much similar to falcon boards. (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/dd3df355.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/jasper07.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/bc096668.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/6c3f98b6.jpg ) It also appears there are RAM chips on the bottom of the board again (without thermal pads even) ... Microsoft recently switched to RAM chips with double capacity (http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/sep/EkElpylpypwOmrSMkk.php ) so they could drop the 4 chips on bottom (and only place 4 on the top) ... but apparently they are back (old stock maybe?). (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/cdb630e1.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/jasper/6820e026.jpg )

From edge-online.com (http://www.edge-online.com/features/sony-%E2%80%9Cway-ahead%E2%80%9D-environmental-issues?page=0%2C0 ): [QUOTE] Greenpeace International has told Edge that Sony is a significantly greener videogame company than both Microsoft and Nintendo. And while Microsoft is improving its standards, Nintendo is performing woefully. Sony: 24/45 Microsoft: 15/45 Nintendo: 4/45 And though Microsoft's score suggests they are not too far from Sony in the broadest sense, the company's score of fifteen points were largely tallied in three areas; precautionary principles, chemicals management and a timeline for phasing out potentially dangerous chemicals. Microsoft scored nine points in these three areas and failed to impress Greenpeace in a number of other areas, yet Sony accumulated its higher total by a focused effort across the spectrum of green measures. "Microsoft is just getting on board with the environment. They've just hired a sustainability team, and we are seeing movement from Microsoft with its 360 console, but the company had started from a very low base." Kruszewska does praise Microsoft for making its changes, however, especially in its promise to eliminate PVC BFRs [brominated flame retardants - known for their toxic properties, resistance to degradation in the environment and an ability to 'build' inside humans and animals] by the end of 2010. "But really, they have it so easy because they only make two core hardware products - the 360 and the Zune - they should really be way ahead. But they are coming on board for sure." [/QUOTE] Full Story: edge-online.com (http://www.edge-online.com/features/sony-%E2%80%9Cway-ahead%E2%80%9D-environmental-issues?page=0%2C0 ) (3 pages)

From seattlepi.nwsource.com (http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/microsoft/archives/155437.asp?source=mypi ): [QUOTE] For two months in a row now, the Xbox 360 has solidly outsold the PlayStation 3. But in an interview last week, a PlayStation executive said that the Xbox 360's rise was a "blip" attributable to its September price cut and that the consoles would be neck and neck during the holidays. "We're going to see a very tight race this holiday because of our gaming lineup," said John Koller, Sony's director of hardware marketing. "We're very bullish on holiday sales." So far this year, sales of the PS3 and the Xbox 360 are essentially tied, with each console maker selling about 2.4 million units. Prior to the price cut, though, the PS3 had the lead, with 2 million unit sales through August to the Xbox 360's 1.7 million. "You are going to see all consoles do well seasonally," Koller said. "Going into next year that's when proof is going to be." [/QUOTE] Full Story: seattlepi.nwsource.com (http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/microsoft/archives/155437.asp?source=mypi )

From mcvuk.com (http://www.mcvuk.com/news/32478/Xbox-360-enjoys-biggest-European-sales-week-ever ): [QUOTE] Platform holder Microsoft has revealed that it 'recently' enjoyed its biggest ever sales week in Europe - and it's thanking the effects of the economic crisis for the boom. A press release from the firm reads: "British families are set to spend more quality time together than in the last ten years this Christmas, as the economic downturn drives more families to stay at home and enjoy entertainment together. "These trends show that providing both a broad experience and value to consumers with Xbox 360 is in line with consumer sentiment. To date, we have sold seven million consoles in Europe and recently enjoyed our biggest sales week ever. Our trend research shows that families are looking for gifts that keep on giving throughout the year. [/QUOTE] Full Story: mcvuk.com (http://www.mcvuk.com/news/32478/Xbox-360-enjoys-biggest-European-sales-week-ever )

From engadget.com (http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/25/columbia-pictures-flicks-mostly-back-on-for-xbox-360-netfl/ ): [QUOTE] We never got a satisfactory answer for why they disappeared in the first place, but it seems the majority of the Columbia Pictures' movies on Netflix Instant Watch lists suddenly switched to "not available on Xbox 360" are However Columbia Pictures movies tagged with the "available through Starz Play" logo -- including Bad Boys and Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story -- are still out. [/QUOTE] Full Story: engadget.com (http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/25/columbia-pictures-flicks-mostly-back-on-for-xbox-360-netfl/ )

Team Xecuter sent us samples of the new Xecuter Connectivity Kit v3 Lite and Pro (http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/sep/EkkkVVVZZlXIgLTjoc.php ). Here are some pictures, click for high-res. (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xecuter-conn-kit-v3/01.jpg ) * Xecuter Connectivity Kit v3 PRO (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xecuter-conn-kit-v3/02.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xecuter-conn-kit-v3/04.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xecuter-conn-kit-v3/06.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xecuter-conn-kit-v3/07.jpg ) * Xecuter Connectivity Kit v3 LITE (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xecuter-conn-kit-v3/03.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xecuter-conn-kit-v3/05.jpg ) Official Site: http://team-xecuter.com (http://team-xecuter.com/ ) Buy Xecuter Connectivity Kit v3 PRO: mrmodchips (http://www.mrmodchips.co.uk/catalog/product_info.php?ref=14&products_id=553&affiliate_banner_id=1¤cy=USD ) | divineo (http://www.divineo.com/php/affstart.php?affcode=xboxscene&prod=hb-360-xck3pro ) Buy Xecuter Connectivity Kit v3 LITE: mrmodchips (http://www.mrmodchips.co.uk/catalog/product_info.php?ref=14&products_id=552&affiliate_banner_id=1¤cy=USD ) | divineo (http://www.divineo.com/php/affstart.php?affcode=xboxscene&prod=hb-360-xck3lite )

From xbox360fanboy.com (http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/11/25/black-friday-spotlight-on-xbox-360-deals/ ): [QUOTE] The deal mongers have been waiting all year and the shopping addicts have been frothing at the bit for over eleven months for this Friday's shopping mega event. That's right, this Friday is officially Black Friday 2008, the day retailers (traditionally) try to entice shoppers into their stores with low prices, loss leading items and deals galore. Here at X3F, we know you just want Xbox 360 deals, so that's what we're offering. We've weeded through all the retailer ads and bring you our comprehensive list of all the Xbox 360 Black Friday deals listed by store. We even separated all the Xbox 360 hardware deals into one category for easy deal comparison. Hit the break for a textual overload of Black Friday savings. [/QUOTE] Check out all the deals on xbox360fanboy.com (http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/11/25/black-friday-spotlight-on-xbox-360-deals/ ).

Klutsh released a new version of iPrep 101(info (http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox360-tools/iPrep101.php )) a .NET application and collection of MSDOS scripts/applications for use in flashing a Samsung TS-H943A or BenQ DVD drives. What's new/fixed: * Removed MTKFlash, now exclusive use of DOSFlash. * Forced use of removeable drives. * Win32 UI for DVDKey32. * Ability to generate valid BenQ/Samsung Lite-On Spoof Firmware. * Includes FirmTool 1.2, DVDKey32 v0.6, DosFlash(info (http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox360-tools/DosFlash.php )) 1.6. Official Site: x-projects.org (http://forums.x-projects.org/index.php?topic=30.msg141 ) Download: here (http://dwl.xbox-scene.com/xbox360pc/dvd/iPrep-101-v008-Beta-Setup.rar )

From the press release: [QUOTE] Following the highly-anticipated launch of the Community Games channel as part of the New Xbox Experience on Nov. 19, Microsoft today announced that it will open up the service to even more developers around the world to create their own games for Xbox 360 and share them with millions. Beginning on Dec. 15, independent, student and hobbyist developers in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand will have the opportunity to distribute their titles on the new Xbox LIVE Community Games Channel and potentially share in the profits from their creations. For developers like team Gambit of Singapore that created the 2008 Dream-Build-Play first place winner "CarneyVale: Showtime," this offers the unique ability to develop games using Microsoft's free XNA development toolset, share them on a console like never before and potentially turn the hobby of game-making into a full-fledged career. An XNA Premium Creators Club Membership, which is only $99 (USD) a year, will allow game makers to participate in the multi-billion-dollar-a-year industry. For Xbox LIVE members, it means more diverse and innovative titles that are only available on Xbox 360. "If our annual Dream-Build-Play competition taught us one thing, it is that there is such a wealth of creativity and imagination in this region, and all over the world, that should be shared with millions," General Manager of the XNA Boyd Multerer said. "Now even more developers can participate in what we expect to be a worldwide movement to truly democratize game development." A host of new and creative ideas are already appearing on the Xbox LIVE Community Games Channel, including 3-D fighting experiences like "Colosseum" and games for the entire family like "Word Soup." Community-created games on Xbox LIVE are expected to add hundreds of titles of the Xbox 360 video game library, offering some of the most inventive and unpredictable games ever seen on consoles. By the end of 2008, Xbox 360 owners are expected to have access to the largest, most creatively diverse game library across all next-generation platforms, with more than 1,000 titles spanning Community Games, Xbox LIVE Arcade and retail blockbuster titles. Singapore, Australia and New Zealand join the growing list of countries including the United States, Canada, England, France, Italy Spain and the Nordic regions that can publish Xbox LIVE Community Games. More detailed information about Community Games and Creators Club Memberships can be found by visiting http://creators.xna.com. [/QUOTE]

Neogaf.com (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=13591900 ) has a list of the space required to install games on your Xbox 360 HDD with the NXE. Most games seem to required around 5 to 6.8gb of free space. According to the list there are also a few games that will not install on HDD (error messsage: "Installation of this game is not supported."): Burger King trilogy, Crackdown, Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball 2 and Quake II (included on Quake IV bonus disk). Check out the full list on Neogaf.com (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=13591900 ).

From mcvuk.com (http://www.mcvuk.com/news/32449/360-global-sales-surpass-original-Xbox ): [QUOTE] Microsoft has told MCV that the Xbox 360 has now topped its predecessor's installed base around the globe. The company previously noted that it expected to achieve the feat at the end of this month - but it has now confirmed to MCV that 360 has already overtaken the original Xbox's total sales of 25 million. [/QUOTE] Full Story: mcvuk.com (http://www.mcvuk.com/news/32449/360-global-sales-surpass-original-Xbox )

XCM introduced the Lite version a while ago, this is the Pro version with tilt technology. (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xcm-rapid-fire-gear/box.c.jpg ) (http://pictures.xbox-scene.com/xbox360/xcm-rapid-fire-gear/C_1c.jpg ) Features: * Built-in Tilt sensor technology * Adds Rapid Fire (turbo) to any combination of buttons, triggers and bumpers. * Easily turn Rapid Fire (turbo) on or off any button in a matter of seconds. * Complete controller case replacement - includes top, bottom cases as well as buttons, bumpers and triggers. * The built in LEDs allow you to tell exactly which buttons, bumpers, or triggers are on Rapid Fire. * XCM Rapid Fire Gear is compatible with all original Xbox 360 wireless controllers! Official Site: http://xcm-usa.com (http://xcm-usa.com ) Buy XCM Rapid Fire Gear Lite ($55): extreme-mods.com (http://www.extreme-mods.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=XB360-RAPIDFIREGEARLITE&Click=12 ) Buy XCM Rapid Fire Gear: soon

From nytimes.com (http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/11/21/consumption-study-takes-aim-at-game-consoles/ ): [QUOTE] In a new study about how much energy video game consoles consume, the Natural Resources Defense Council found that consoles in use today consume "an estimated 16 billion-kilowatt hours per year," which, the report goes on to translate, is "roughly equal to the annual electricity use of the city of San Diego." Noah Horowitz, a senior scientist at NRDC and the study's lead researcher, said gamers often leave consoles on when they're not playing in order to return to the middle of a level that can't be saved and reloaded in the same place if the power is turned off. Similar to the hibernating mode available to Windows and Mac computer users, Mr. Horowitz says such a feature for game consoles would help save energy while preserving the player's progress. "If nobody hits the controller for one hour or whatever time you set, the console would go into a lower power state, but before it does it would take a snapshot of your game, and when you come back you go right back where you were." In terms of overall energy use for the best-selling consoles -- whether regularly turned off or not -- the report describes Nintendo's Wii, which draws 16 watts of power when in use, as a "juice sipper." Microsoft's Xbox 360, drawing 119 watts while active, sits in the middle. Sony's PlayStation 3 was rated as the power hog, at 150 watts while in use. [/QUOTE] Full Story: nytimes.com (http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/11/21/consumption-study-takes-aim-at-game-consoles/ )

From gizmodo.com (http://gizmodo.com/5096014/new-xbox-experience-causing-hdmi-lost-sound-problems-some-users-say ): [QUOTE] According to a long thread at the AVForums, several Xbox 360 users are losing all sound after upgrading to the New Xbox Experience. Fortunately, there seems to be a fix: * Turn off the Xbox 360. * Remove the hard drive. * Turn on the Xbox 360. * When the Dashboard loads, put the hard drive back. Apparently, the fix is only temporary. If you turn of the Xbox, you will have to receive the process [/QUOTE] Full Story: gizmodo.com (http://gizmodo.com/5096014/new-xbox-experience-causing-hdmi-lost-sound-problems-some-users-say )

From engadget.com (http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/20/xbox-360s-lack-of-sony-pictures-films-streaming-on-netflix-unr/ ): [QUOTE] You probably recall that two days ago, when the new Xbox Experience launched, sadly, about 300 Sony Pictures films were unavailable for Netflix Watch Instantly on NXE. According to a Sony spokesperson, the problem isn't specific to the Xbox, nor is their beef competition-related in any way. Sony also says it is in talks with the several "relevant parties" to work out these vague licensing issues, though there was no word on when the issue would be resolved. [/QUOTE] Full Story: engadget.com (http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/20/xbox-360s-lack-of-sony-pictures-films-streaming-on-netflix-unr/ )

From mcvuk.com (http://www.mcvuk.com/news/32414/Xbox-360-storms-past-7m-sales-in-Europe ): [QUOTE] Microsoft has told MCV that Xbox 360 has cruised past seven million sales in Europe. The company last released a European sales figure for Xbox 360 in June, when it told MCV that it had shifted five million units in EMEA. Now that number has grown by two million - having been greatly affected by September's price reduction, which saw the 360 Arcade SKU reduced to just £129.99 (€179.99). "When you look at what we've got coming, just in the next three or four weeks, that gives us the confidence that this will be the best ever Christmas in the history of Xbox. " [/QUOTE] Full Story: mcvuk.com (http://www.mcvuk.com/news/32414/Xbox-360-storms-past-7m-sales-in-Europe )

From the XNA Team Blog (http://blogs.msdn.com/xna/archive/2008/11/19/xbox-live-community-games-is-open-for-business.aspx ): [QUOTE] Hopefully you've managed to upgrade yourself to the New Xbox Experience (http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/nxe/ ) already! Some people are reporting having trouble logging on to Xbox.com (http://www.xbox.com/ ) to sign the new Terms of Use. If that includes you, try signing this through your Xbox 360 console instead. That is probably your quickest and easiest route back to Premium Creators Club (http://creators.xna.com/ ) membership status. We've also got a new area just for Xbox LIVE Community Games over on the Xbox.com forums (http://forums.xbox.com/default.aspx?ForumGroupID=36 ). This will be where we can send those earnest voices that don't necessarily want to make a game, but simply want to offer their opinions on the games created. Each Community Game will have its own thread created once it is available through Marketplace. On Creators Club we've opened up the last piece of the site to the Creators -- the "My Business (https://profile.xna.com/en-US/mybusiness.aspx )" portion of your profile is now live. If you're selling a Community Game or plan to sell one you need to give us your information there so we know where to send the check! This is a pretty incredible day for all of us. We've managed to do something that no one has really done before. We've opened up the console and given independent game developers a chance to sell their work to the millions of Xbox LIVE gamers. Our creators have submitted more than 30 different games (http://catalog.xna.com/en-US/gamescatalog.aspx ) that you can download now through the Community Games channel (http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/games/catalog.aspx?d=7 ) on the New Xbox Experience. Each game has something incredible to offer and speaks to the potential that waits beyond today. We really can't wait to see what happens next! [/QUOTE]

From majornelson.com (http://majornelson.com ): [QUOTE] * As you can imagine, it's been an incredible day so far for the New Xbox Experience. It's great to see so much enthusiasm...it sounds like you are having fun exploring NXE. With an update of this magnitude, reaching more than 14 million people around the globe, we are aware some of you may be experiencing a few hiccups along the way. The LIVE team is closely monitoring the LIVE service and Xbox.com and are aware of a few issues including what's happening with Marketplace. The team is actively working on the issues, so thanks for bearing with us. * We hope your're enjoying the New Xbox Experience. As expected, Netflix on Xbox 360 is a huge success, with the LIVE community flocking to this portion of the New Xbox Experience. Some of you may have had a few challenges earlier today but I wanted to let you know they've been resolved. [/QUOTE]

From arstechnica.com (http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2008/11/19/meet-your-xbox-community-game-launch-titles ): [QUOTE] The New Xbox Experience has arrived today, along with the Xbox Community Games Platform. This new portal will offer countless games from independent developers that are moderated by the community, rather than Microsoft. We had a chance to play around with the Community Games prior to launch, and we have liked what's out there so far. Let's take a look at just a few of the games that you can scoop up at launch. The Good * Bloc (200 Points, $2.50) * Lines (200 Points, $2.50) The Bad * Cubage (200 Points, $2.50) * Space Combat (200 Points, $2.50) The Strange * Drift (400 Points, $5) * Being (200 Points, $2.50) [/QUOTE] Full Story: arstechnica.com (http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2008/11/19/meet-your-xbox-community-game-launch-titles )

From bungie.net (http://www.bungie.net/News/Blog.aspx?mode=news#cid16252 ): [QUOTE] The "New Xbox Experience" was released today and one of the new features allows you to "install" your games to the HDD. While you still have to keep the original disc in the tray, installing to the HDD can make some games perform a little better while also putting a little less wear-and-tear on your DVD drive. However, this isn't to say that ALL games will see optimizations from being installed. In fact, in the case of Halo 3, the game will actually see increased loading times. Several websites have reported the results of tests to gauge how some games perform after being installed to the HDD for Halo 3 and their tests indicate that in some cases, the load times are significantly longer. Our own internal investigations have yielded similar results. To help explain why this is the case I tapped our uber engineer and Chief Caching Officer, Mat Noguchi, to answer a few questions. [/QUOTE] Full Story: bungie.net (http://www.bungie.net/News/Blog.aspx?mode=news#cid16252 )

From gamasutra.com (http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=21176 ): [QUOTE] All Columbia Pictures movies have been pulled from the Xbox Live version of Netflix, following the launch of the New Xbox Experience dashboard update. Columbia Pictures is a subsidiary of Sony Pictures Entertainment, but the move does not appear to be malicious on the part of Sony executives -- all movies distributed by Sony Pictures still remain accessible through the service. "A few hundred titles are temporarily unavailable to be streamed via the Xbox game console," Netflix corporate communications VP Dave Swasey told consumer website MTV Multiplayer. "Those titles are still available to be watched on subscribers' computers and on TVs via other partner devices, and we hope they'll be licensed for Xbox 360 shortly." [/QUOTE] Full Story: gamasutra.com (http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=21176 )

From majornelson.com (http://majornelson.com/archive/2008/11/19/top-10-things-to-do-when-you-get-the-new-xbox-experience.aspx ): [QUOTE] The New Xbox Experience is in the process of being deployed to all Xbox LIVE members, but it will take a few hours for everyone to get the prompt to update to NXE....be patient! In the meantime I thought I would give my Top 10 list of things to do with NXE when you get it later today: 1) Create (or Customize) your Avatar - You can spend as much (or as little) time as you want in the Avatar Editor to personalize your little guy/girl Bonus: When you are done with #1, be sure to take a Gamer Picture of your Avatar. In the Avatar editor, choose Gamer Picture. You can use the controls to move your avatar around, zoom in and out or even change the background color (press Y) 2) Explore the all new dashboard. (hint: use the trigger and bumpers to quickly scroll up and down or left and right) 3) PAR-TAY! Check out Xbox LIVE Parties and chat with up to seven of your friends. Go to the Friends channel...choose a friend who is online and press Y to get the party started. You can also hit the Xbox 360 Guide button > Party >Start a Party. Once you do that, send off invites to your party (since one does not make a very good party...does it?) 4) Themes. While any themes you work will NXE, check out some of the new themes via My Xbox and select your profile (second slot) and then change theme. Xbox 360, Spectrum, Day and Night are new themes that available as part of your NXE upgrade...check them out. 5) Marketplace on Xbox.com. This new feature lets you search, browse, and purchase games and videos while you are away from your console. You can also perform account management functions like changing your billing information, viewing your purchase history, and downloading items you already own. 6) Netflix - Xbox LIVE Gold Member and you have Netflix? If you are in the US you can stream thousands of videos (some in HD) directly from Netflix to your Xbox 360. Not a member? Sign up for a free trial at Xbox.com/netflix 7) Install to / Play from Hard Drive. With the game in the tray, return to your dashboard. (pressing the guide button then Y works as always) then go to My Xbox. From here press Y, which will bring up a new menu which will allow, among other things the ability to install a game to your hard drive. Hint: You can still use the Xbox 360 guide while installing a game to keep in touch with your friends or start a Party. Bonus: Before you do #7, be sure to set up what happens when you turn on your Xbox 360. My Xbox->System Settings>Console settings. Then choose Start up to to choose Disc, Xbox Dashboard or Windows Media Center. Once you are done there...check the option right below it: Autostart. This tell your Xbox 360 what to do when you insert a game. The choices are enable or disable. I have mine set to disable so I can easily use install to hard drive. 8) Delete Zero Gamerscore games. You can remove any games from your games played list that you have earned no achievements or gamerscore. Press the Xbox 360- guide button, navigate left to the games section and choose Achievements. From here choose the game with zero gamerscore you want to remove and press X (Delete Game History.) 9) Press the Xbox 360 button on your controller to see the all new Guide. The team has added more functionality than the old guide, while making it more responsive. It's a quick way to check your messages, see who is online or start a party. 10) Take a look at Community Games in the Games Marketplace. For the first time in the history of console gaming, thousands of games developed by the creative community will be available to the public. [/QUOTE]

From the Xbox PR Blog (http://feeds.feedburner.com/GamerscoreBlog ): [QUOTE] If you are eagerly awaiting the chance to download the free Xbox LIVE Arcade Avatar updates launching soon, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure you can download them successfully. This information only pertains to Hardwood Hearts, Hardwood Spades, and Bomberman; UNO and Kingdom for Keflings will also support avatars now, but don't have a special upgrade process. If you have never downloaded one of these titles, simply find them in Marketplace, and the version you download will come preloaded with Avatar support. Otherwise, if you are already an owner of one of these titles, follow these easy steps to get Avatars working in your game: 1. When you launch the game, accept and download the Title Update that is offered as usual. 2. When the game reloads, you will see a message highlighting the new features that will be added to your game, as well as a pointer on where to go to download. Click the A button to navigate to the download location. 3. Download the game package. For most users, there will be a checkmark next to the full game download option. This is okay, as a re-download of the package is necessary in order to enable the new features. 4. And that's it! Choose "Play Now" to reload the game and be sure to check out all of the places Avatars can be found throughout your game. For more information on all of the titles launching with Avatars, check out the new "Avatar Games" channel in Xbox LIVE Arcade. [/QUOTE]

From joystiq.com (http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/nxe-netflix-streaming-queues-suddenly-gimped/ ): [QUOTE] Our Netflix streaming queues just got considerably shorter on the eve of the NXE launch. Acting on a tip, we popped into our Netflix account and sure enough, our "Instant Queue" had a new "Notes" column with an oft-repeated, red notice: "Not available on Xbox." Logging onto Xbox Live (with an NXE account) confirmed that these titles were no longer available for streaming on Xbox 360. We've found a common thread! All of the affected titles from our Queue are distributed by Columbia Pictures. Columbia Pictures, of course, is owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment, a subsidiary of Microsoft rival Sony. Case closed? [/QUOTE] Full Story: joystiq.com (http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/nxe-netflix-streaming-queues-suddenly-gimped/ )

Stevewal released a new version of X-DSL on our forums (http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=666045 ) - it's a small (about 50MBs) but fully functional Linux distribution for the Xbox1, based on Damn Small Linux (http://www.damnsmalllinux.org ): [QUOTE] As the title says, Xdsl 0.6 has now been released. You can find downloads and all info on the xdsl site here (http://www.x-dsl.org/wiki/Main_Page ). The final release is identical to the last release candidate but with a newer version of xromwell included, which should solve some booting errors. I've not been here for a while as I've been working on some dsl apps, and other projects. However I needed an up to date dsl version and thought I may as well port it onto the xbox. So finishing off xdsl 0.6 seemed to be a priority again, before the next version comes out. Xdsl 0.7 alpha (based on dsl 4.2) has been shelved, in favour of a new xdsl 0.7 beta (based on dsl 4.4.3), which will be relased soon also. [/QUOTE] Official Site: http://www.x-dsl.org/wiki/Main_Page (http://www.x-dsl.org/wiki/Main_Page ) Download: here (http://www.x-dsl.org/wiki/Download )

From the press release: [QUOTE] In 1954, the introduction of color TV heralded the dawn of a new era in entertainment. On Nov. 19, more than 50 years after that dramatic shift, a new era in home entertainment begins with the New Xbox Experience, as millions of Xbox 360 consoles will transform in an instant through the power of software. A bold new future begins now, where high-definition (HD) entertainment is delivered in an instant, the best games share the stage with the best movies and TV shows, and every experience is shared with friends and family in the same room or around the world. By the end of this month, Xbox 360 will reach another industry-defining milestone: 25 million Xbox 360 consoles sold worldwide. It has taken the leading next-generation game and entertainment console just three years to eclipse the total lifetime number of original Xbox consoles sold. "The future of home entertainment is Xbox 360 -- it's on-demand, it's high-definition, it's always social, it's all in one place," said Don Mattrick, senior vice president for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft Corp. "With the New Xbox Experience, we will reach the next generation of Xbox owners, 25 million and beyond. We are at a watershed moment, backed by the largest entertainment brands, with an incredible lineup of entertainment unmatched in any industry." All Your Friends and Favorite Entertainment, One Remote Control With the launch of the New Xbox Experience, Xbox 360 owners will enjoy a limitless world where the best games, movies and TV shows are ready to share with friends across the globe through Xbox LIVE: * Netflix instantly streaming in HD. The New Xbox Experience isn't the only thing that will look great on your TV. Netflix is taking the first step by instantly streaming movies and TV episodes in high definition with the introduction of approximately 300 choices in HD via Xbox 360, including "La Vie en Rose," "Flawless" and "Heroes." Xbox 360 is the only Netflix-ready device to offer high-definition movies and TV episodes. * Xbox LIVE Party. Xbox 360 allows you to create a virtual party on your TV with up to seven friends. With Xbox LIVE Party, use voice chat while you play games,1 share photos in real time and entertain friends all over the world. * Personality plus. Create a customizable, animated avatar and literally jump into the world of Xbox LIVE. Your avatar is your game face throughout the New Xbox Experience and represents your personality -- whether you are serving as an Xbox LIVE Party host, playing a game of "Scene It? Box Office Smash" or chatting with a friend. * On-demand entertainment. Xbox 360 is home to the best TV and movie entertainment, including more than 12,000 movies and TV episodes from Netflix and a large online library of more than 15,000 on-demand high-definition TV shows and movies from global partners such as Constantin, The Walt Disney Studios, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM), NBC Universal Inc. and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. * Your personal game room. Play revived classics such as "PAC-MAN Championship Edition," "Galaga Legions" and "Portal: Still Alive" alongside games that put your avatars in the action, such as "A Kingdom for Keflings," "UNO," "Hardwood Hearts" and "Hardwood Spades," exclusively for download from Xbox LIVE Arcade. Xbox LIVE members also will be able to access all of Xbox LIVE Marketplace, including Xbox LIVE Arcade, and even queue content to download straight from Xbox.com. * Games for the community, by the community. For the first time in the history of console gaming, thousands of games developed by the creative community will be available to the public. The Community Games channel on Xbox LIVE will include games made by students, hobbyists and maybe even your next door neighbor, and will be exclusive to Xbox LIVE. The World's Biggest Names in Entertainment, All in One Place No device offers more entertainment than Xbox 360. In addition to Netflix in the United States, major film studios around the world unveiled their plans to offer feature films on Xbox LIVE in Canada, Italy and Spain, truly transforming Xbox 360 into the world's largest online entertainment center: * Magnolia Pictures. The studio that released such groundbreaking and award-winning feature films as "The World's Fastest Indian," "The Host," "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room" and "Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior" will be bringing its slate of compelling feature films to Xbox LIVE in Canada and the U.S. * MGM. MGM is bringing its library of blockbuster movies to Xbox LIVE in Italy and Spain. MGM, already available in Canada, France, Germany, the U.K. and the U.S., will offer films such as "Carrie," "Rocky" and "Species" on Xbox LIVE around the world. * Paramount Pictures. Paramount Digital Entertainment will mark the two-year anniversary of making its movies available on Xbox LIVE by becoming a content provider in Italy and Spain. Films such as "Iron Man," "Stop-Loss" and "The Ruins" will be made available worldwide this fall. * Warner Bros. Digital Distribution. Warner Bros. Digital Distribution will make 100 movie titles available on Xbox LIVE in Italy, including "Interview With the Vampire" and "The Matrix Trilogy." Xbox LIVE in Spain also will offer 100 movie titles, including "Sweeney Todd" and "One Missed Call." Currently the studio offers content in Canada, Germany, France, the U.K. and the U.S. Xbox 360 Puts You in the Spotlight This Holiday While Xbox 360 has evolved into a world-class entertainment device, it remains the best place to play. In concert with the launch of the New Xbox Experience, two entertainment heavyweights step into the spotlight, ready to wow audiences across the world. Today is the launch of "Lips" and "You're in the Movies," two games that promise to get you on your feet and performing like a star. * "Lips" is an all-new music franchise exclusively for Xbox 360. "Lips" is the only singing game that offers wireless, motion-sensitive microphones and the ability to sing to a diverse list of included songs representing multiple musical genres, ranging from pop, rock and dance to hip-hop, country and R&B, as well as compatible songs from your music collection.2 * "You're in the Movies" brings out the movie star in everyone this holiday season with its release exclusively on Xbox 360 coming Nov. 18. It's the first and only game of its kind that transports players into a magical world of cinema and hilarious improvisations. Using the Xbox LIVE Vision camera, friends and families choose a script, act it out and in minutes watch the often hilarious, always entertaining results. [/QUOTE]

From majornelson.com (http://majornelson.com/archive/2008/11/17/sign-up-for-the-preview-you-re-in.aspx ): [QUOTE] Instead of adding another 10,000 people to the preview program like we did last week, we've decided to do something a little different: everyone who successfully applied to the preview program (and submitted a valid console ID) will be getting the New Xbox Experience sometime within the next few hours. That's right...we're hooking everyone else up with NXE a bit early. If you signed up and are not prompted, that means you did not enter your console ID properly and you'll have to wait until Wednesday. Don't worry, it's almost here. [/QUOTE]

From kotaku.com (http://kotaku.com/5089892/microsoft-launches-online-store-kind-of-misses-point ): [QUOTE] Microsoft have quietly launched their own online store (http://store.microsoft.com/home.aspx ). Aside from the obvious stuff like Windows and Office, the store is also selling quite a number of games. Both PC and 360 titles are on offer (ie most of the company's first-party lineup) though you have to wonder why they're bothering, since the games end up costing more than they do in a store, with Microsoft charging rrp plus $7 shipping. [/QUOTE] Full Story: kotaku.com (http://kotaku.com/5089892/microsoft-launches-online-store-kind-of-misses-point )

From venturebeat.com (http://venturebeat.com/2008/11/16/microsofts-shane-kim-loves-nintendo-talks-up-new-xbox-experience-as-social-network/ ): [QUOTE] Microsoft executive Shane Kim touted the New Xbox Experience coming next week as the company's attempt to broaden its reach and shift its Xbox Live online gaming service from a multiplayer matchmaking service to a broader entertainment social network. While Microsoft has done well with hardcore gamers, Kim acknowledged that the company has had a harder time getting the broader audiences that Nintendo's Wii has snared. It isn't giving up on those new gamers and hopes to attract them with the simplicity of how the Xbox Live user interface lets them make new friends and discover new kinds of media. "I believe to be the leader in interactive entertainment, we have to expand well beyond gaming," he said. Kim said that it never pays to bash Nintendo. Rather, he said he loved Nintendo because it's broadening the audience and is showing Microsoft what it needs to accomplish. He said that with 14 million members connecting to Xbox Live in the past six months, the mass market advertisers are starting to pay attention. Asked how long Microsoft would keep making the Xbox 360, he said, "One day longer than the lifespan of the PlayStation 3." That means that Microsoft will invest in the Xbox 360 for a long time and feels no pressure to offer a new machine. [/QUOTE] Full Story: venturebeat.com (http://venturebeat.com/2008/11/16/microsofts-shane-kim-loves-nintendo-talks-up-new-xbox-experience-as-social-network/ )

From xbmc.org (http://xbmc.org/blog/2008/11/14/xbmc-atlantis-released/ ): [QUOTE] Team-XBMC (http://xbmc.org/about/team/ ) is proud to announce the cross-platform release of XBMC Media Center (http://xbmc.org/ ) for Linux, Mac OS X (Leopard, Tiger, and Apple TV), Windows, and Xbox, code named 'Atlantis (http://xbmc.org/trac/roadmap )'. We've reached the end of over 3 months of bug bashing, and have closed 425 tickets for this release and, while there are still some bugs outstanding, we feel that 'Atlantis' is reasonably stable, and thus it's time to move on and get cracking on new features. We've branched for release, and will maintain this branch with critical bug fixes while we move on and begin working on new features in the main linuxport trunk. Thanks to all in the community who have made this possible by reporting bugs and suggesting improvements. In particular we'd like to recognise the sterling efforts of Sho who was our release manager for 'Atlantis', diligently handling the trac system on behalf of developers. We'd also like to thank our new QA team of Arnova, SandmanCL and ShortySco for their help verifying bug reports and making it easier for the devs to concentrate on fixing bugs. Go grab XBMC 'Atlantis' (http://xbmc.org/download/ ) and let us know how it goes! [/QUOTE] T3CH released a new SVN compile (rev16144 - Atlantis 8.10 Final) of XBMC for Xbox(info (http://www.xbox-scene.com/software/software.php?page=mediaplayers#newsitemEpyVVkpEFZGLaWTWZd )). This T3CH-compile is a complete snapshot of what is in SVN at the time the build was compiled, with just a few small additions. Special T3CH Notes and Noteworthy/XML/Script changes: * Say Hi to XBMC Atlantis 8.10. It might be a while until next build, it all depends on the Xbox development activity. * Team Razorfish's MediaStream skin updated to 0.97 see here (http://xbmc.org/forum/showthread.php?t=40163 ), AMT upgraded to 0.99.7.1 rev2372, I changed to SVN Repo Installer thx to Nuka1195's suggestion and last but not least AMT II Plugin readded for this release. Official XBMC Site: http://xbmc.org (http://xbmc.org/ ) (manual (http://xbmc.org/wiki/index.php?title=Xbox_Media_Center_Online_Manual ) and FAQ (http://xbmc.org/wiki/index.php?title=Frequently_Asked_Questions )) Official T3CH Site: http://t3ch.yi.se (http://t3ch.yi.se/ ) (release RSS feed (http://t3ch.yi.se/feed.rss )) Downloads: Xbox Bins (n/a - built with XDK (http://www.xbox-scene.com/xdk.php )) | other platforms (http://xbmc.org/download/ ) | sourcecode (http://xbmc.org/wiki/index.php?title=What_Is_Source_Code )

From majornelson.com (http://majornelson.com/archive/2008/11/14/having-xbox-live-connection-issues.aspx ): [QUOTE] In the past few hours, the Xbox Operations Center noticed that large number of members were disconnected from Xbox LIVE, some more than once. Our Engineering teams are actively working to determine the root cause of this issue and to prevent it from happening again. If you are disconneced, you should be able to reconnect after a few minutes. Thanks for your patience as we work quickly to solve the issue. [/QUOTE]

From the Xbox PR Blog (http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2008/11/14/562357.aspx ): [QUOTE] It all started with you providing us feedback and we thank you for it. You've waited patiently (most of you - ha ha), and we thank you for that, too. You've checked in with us every Friday for weeks to learn about all of the features coming with the New Xbox Experience, like how to create an Avatar and how you can play with your Avatars in games. We've shown you how you will have your very own video library of more than 12,000 streaming films and TV episodes with Netflix and how searching for Themes, map packs, movies, TV shows and other downloadable content will be even easier in the all-new Xbox LIVE Marketplace (which you can now access from the web!). We've talked about playing from the hard drive, decreasing load times and noise from the spinning disc in tray. We showed you the Community Games channel and talked about how everyone can become an Xbox 360 developer. You've explored the new Premium Themes and Friends Channel and checked out how the Gamercard, Gamerscore and Achievements will look in the new interface. We let you ride along during an Xbox LIVE Party where we jumped in and out of games, with one push of the button, chatting the entire time, and we shared our personal pictures with you in a Photo Party. There is only one thing we haven't showed you yet, and that is how to get the New Xbox Experience next Tuesday. It's easy but in case you're having panic attacks and want to know every detail of the prompts you go through, check out a video that our own Major Nelson created below: Only a few more days to go. Enough of us feeding you information from our point of view. Now it's all about you - It's *your* new experience. Enjoy your weekend and maybe do some of the things you've been putting off. Remember to kiss your husband/wife/girlfriend/boyfriend/gerbil because once NXE hits, you may not have as much time for them - you'll be too busy using the new features. [/QUOTE]

From gamedaily.com (http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/news/xbox-360-installed-base-to-surpass-original-xbox-this-month/?biz=1 ): [QUOTE] Microsoft's Mindy Mount, CFO of the Entertainment and Devices Division, is confident that the Xbox 360 will overtake the original Xbox by the end of November. Speaking at the BMO Capital Markets conference, she said that Xbox 360 will reach 25 million sold this month, which shows the momentum of the Xbox brand. It took the original Xbox over five years to hit that mark, but the 360 is on track to reach this milestone in about three years. Mount continued, saying that the 25 million mark is "only a start" because console sales typically fare even better once they've reached lower price points, such as the Arcade SKU's recent price cut down to $199. "History shows that more than three quarters of console sales come at a price of $199 or lower," she noted. [/QUOTE] Full Story: gamedaily.com (http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/news/xbox-360-installed-base-to-surpass-original-xbox-this-month/?biz=1 )

From gamasutra.com (http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=21107 ): [QUOTE] As usual, Nintendo's two current hardware platforms took the top hardware slot -- and while most platforms stayed in roughly the same sales ballpark as last month, Wii sales jumped well over 100,000 units to 803,000 units. Meanwhile, Microsoft missed its claimed two-to-one sales dominance over the PS3, but only by a slim 9,000 units, with the Xbox 360 at 371,000 and the PlayStation at 190,000 units sold. This month's hardware sales chart is as follows: Wii - 803,000 Nintendo DS - 491,000 Xbox 360 - 371,000 PSP - 193,000 PlayStation 3 - 190,000 PlayStation 2 - 136,000 [/QUOTE] Full Story: gamasutra.com (http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=21107 )

From majornelson.com (http://majornelson.com/archive/2008/11/13/nxe-preview-third-and-final-wave.aspx ): [QUOTE] We did it twice before and we're going to do it again. We're adding more people to the NXE Preview Program. This time, over 10,000 more Xbox LIVE members are being added in this third and final stage of the New Xbox Experience Preview Program (http://majornelson.com/archive/2008/10/24/the-new-xbox-experience-preview-program.aspx ). If you are chosen, you will receive an email later tonight (be sure to check your spam folder or add msftconn@microsoft.com to you safe list) followed by the update tomorrow (November 14th) afternoon (PT). As before, we're only pulling names from those that originally signed up (there is no way to sign up if you missed it, sorry) and this selection process will be at random from those that previously filled out the Connect Program Survey from my original post. Again, this is final wave. All Xbox LIVE members will be getting the New Xbox Experience via Xbox LIVE November 19th. [/QUOTE]

From xbox360fanboy.com (http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/11/13/rumor-zune-to-double-as-additional-xbox-storage/ ): [QUOTE] The rumor comes from the latest Zune newsletter that posts a link to this survey (http://surv.cheetahmail.com/s?n=319&t=hBJHF0qBhXwJuB7W$TQB18CunQe&CELL_ID=264&NODE_ID=21276362&USER_PUID=2533274798913995 ). After click "Yes" to the first question, question number two asks "Have you ever connected your Zune to your Xbox to do any of the following?" Not newsworthy, except for the fact that one of the possible answers is "Use my Zune hard drive for extra Xbox storage". Interesting ... Just don't get too excited, because survey answer could have duel meanings. It could be referring to a Zune being used as official Xbox 360 storage allowing game saves and Marketplace downloads, which would be BIG news. Or the survey answer could be referring to the Zune being a portable media device and used as music and picture storage for use on the 360. If that's the case, this isn't news. [/QUOTE] Full Story: xbox360fanboy.com (http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/11/13/rumor-zune-to-double-as-additional-xbox-storage/ )

From gamasutra.com (http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=21094 ): [QUOTE] Speaking at today's annual BMO Capital Markets Interactive Entertainment Conference, the company's Entertainment and Devices Division corporate VP and CFO discussed the challenges confronting the industry in the current climate. "In tough economic times, people tend to cut back on very high-ticket items like travel and automobiles, but they still want to be entertained. Video games already offer some of the most hours of entertainment per dollar than any other form of entertainment." "It's not to suggest that video games are recession proof, but... even in hard times, people want entertainment more than ever, and video games offer a greater value for the money." "But also, a lot of what the interactive games business is driven by is the cycle of the platform, where you are in the platform, where you are in price points, and the titles that are out in the market today," said Mount. And consumers have responded; according to Mount, console sales increased 42 percent month over month, 62 percent in Europe and a hefty 500 percent in Japan. "Later today, NPD is going to release October sales... and we expect these numbers will show that we continue to outsell [PS3] by a ratio of two to one." [/QUOTE] Full Story: gamasutra.com (http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=21094 )

From an PR email of Team Cygnos: [QUOTE] Cygnos, a team of dedicated console "technicans" is proud to anounce the upcoming release of our first product called "Cygnos360". Cygnos360 is a modchip for the easy installation directly onto the underside of the xbox360 mainboard. Cygnos360 is a dual kernel modchip which adds a secondary NAND flash to the xbox 360 mainboard. It allows switching between the onboard NAND flash and the Cygnos360 NAND flash. By doing so, users can have an exploitable kernel version such as "4532" or "4548" at the same time as the current kernel version required to play the latest games. Cygnos360 can also be used for switching between kernels patched with different region codes so that users can easily switch between US and EU games for example. A quick summary of the features: - adds secondary flash to hold an "alternative kernel" that users can switch to - fits directly on the bottom side of the xbox360 mainboard - needs only one wire running on the board - easy to use "quicksolder pads" which at the same time make sure that the modchip is stuck to the mainboard and does not fall around. - has solder pads for external switch - comes with on PCB status LED - comes with solder pads for external status LED (LED not included) - Cygnos360 is delivered empty! [/QUOTE] Official Site: http://www.cygnos360.com (http://www.cygnos360.com )