Xbox Next info on Gamespy and the Physics Processing Unit are here for your pleasure today...

I know the PPU isn't exactly for Next-gen, but hey, it might...

Keep in mind that all of this information is based off of alpha development kits and current projections for the final hardware. Everything is subject to change.

Scheduling clash prompts media fears, gives PS3 a short head-start over Xbox 2

The PlayStation 3 looks set to be the first of the next-generation consoles to take a bow in front of the world's media - albeit only by a matter of hours, with Sony announcing that its pre-E3 conference will take place just ahead of Microsoft's.

Sony will hold its event on a sound stage in Sony Pictures' complex in Culver City, just outside Los Angeles, at 15.00 PST on Monday, May 16th, and is expected to show off the next-generation PlayStation for the first time at this event.

Three hours later at 18.00 PST, Microsoft will kick off its own event in downtown Los Angeles, where it is expected to finally take the wraps off the next-generation Xbox, currently known only by its development codename Xenon.

The scheduling is threatening a headache for media and industry types who need to attend both events, since if the Sony event runs on for a while it could be quite tough to get from Culver City back into downtown LA in time for the 6pm kick-off with Microsoft.

Outline hardware specifications for both systems are fairly well known; the Sony system uses the custom Cell processor, created in partnership with IBM, and a next-gen NVIDIA graphics chipset, while Microsoft has opted for standard IBM Power-series processors and an ATI graphics solution.

However, a number of key elements remain to be confirmed, such as the amount of RAM in the systems, the type of media they will use - PS3 is expected to use high capacity Blu-Ray discs, while Xbox may well stick with the current DVD technology - and whether either will feature a hard drive

Of course, what many consumers will want to know is simply what the devices look like, with the external appearance of both systems being kept a closely guarded secret so far - and, indeed, what they're called, as neither company is expected to use the obvious "PlayStation 3" and "Xbox 2" naming scheme.

Can't tell you how we got our hands on this image, but what you're looking at is a real live shot of the Xbox 360 that someone sneakily snapped with their cameraphone at Microsoft's Xbox360 Revealed launch party in Los Angeles last night. Also note the presence of a hard drive attachment up top, the white controller, the Xbox Live headset, and what looks like that EyeToy-like camera peripheral we've been hearing about.

aik, tak jadi combine ah the BluRay and HDDVD? I think that MS did a smart move by not changing the standards for the 360. The DVD format is still relatively new, dunno why they all so rushed to introduce new standards oredy.

RUMOR: Sony and Apple working together on PlayStation 3

Friday, May 13, 2005 - 09:22 PM EST

The moderator of PS3 Forums, "The Unofficial PS3 H.Q." has posted the following:

Apple + Sony = PS3

I am now hearing stronger rumors that Sony is indeed working with Apple on the PS3. Most of this work is based around support for iTunes and iPop on the PS3.

iPod connectivity - Ability to connect the iPod to the PS3 and play it's music through the PS3 to your stereo or other audio playback devices. Will also provide some graphical effects on your TV during playback

iTunes linkup - Access iTunes and your music through the PS3. Purchase and download additiona tracks through the PS3. Wirelessly play iTunes music from your PC/Mac through the PS3

Sync support - Use the PS3 to sync your iPod with iTunes, no need for a PC or Mac to sync and add/remove tracks and organize playlists.

Apple may also be helping Sony with some UI design for the PS3 dashboard interface. No links, and for that I appologize, but I figured people would like to hear this information anyways. If the rumors hold true, this would be mutually benefitical for Sony and Apple in a lot of ways.

Full post and forum discussion here.

And, over at Engadget, Joshua Fruhlinger is reporting that, "Merrill Lynch analyst Steven Milunovich thinks Apple and Sony could be working on some big things." Full article here.

Steve Jobs at MacWorld Expo 2005, Tuesday, January 11, 2005, "You know, we do work very closely with Sony on digital still cameras and these new camcorders, which is really great. And who knows, maybe someday, computers and music, too." QuickTime video of Steve Jobs' comment at 57:38.

MacDailyNews Take: This is a rumor. Take it with a grain of salt. It would be very interesting, though, wouldn't it?

and to all of u who thinks sony copy the wii controller.. think again.. sony has patented the technology in 1999... check this out...

..with new advanced techology ..like motion effect