Microsoft: 'No need to launch a new console'

Unlike the original Xbox, Microsoft's in no rush to replace the Xbox 360. Company executives have stated repeatedly that theconsole's life cycle isn't half over yet, and reiterated those comments again at CES last week. Speaking with the UK Guardian, Microsoft's David Hufford said: 

"I think it's important to say that the Xbox 360 is the console of the long future for us. There is no need to launch a new console, because we're able to give this console new life either with software upgrades or hardware upgrades like Project Natal. The Xbox 360 was designed for a long life, and I don't even know if we're at the midpoint yet,"

Considering where the economy is right now, Microsoft and Sony obviously aren't eager to dump the hundreds of millions needed to develop newer consoles. Instead they're integrating incremental hardware upgrades. In the case of Sony, the PS3 will get its own motion device, as well as 3D this year, while Natal will ship for Xbox 360 by the end of the year.