The rumoured claim that Microsoft's next generation Xbox will require an always-online connection to function has been further backed up by another report today.

According to Kotaku, two more 'sources' familiar with early prototype hardware report that the new console - codenamed Durango - won't run any games or apps without a connection to the internet.
"Unless something has changed recently, Durango consumer units must have an active internet connection to be used," one source apparently said, before detailing how the console might deal with dropped connections.

"If there isn't a connection, no games or apps can be started. If the connection is interrupted then after a period of time - currently three minutes, if I remember correctly - the game/app is suspended and the network troubleshooter started," they added.

Kotaku notes that other sources familiar with the new console have said they're unaware of any such plans for a required online connection, but have been unable to completely debunk the rumour. It was reportedly suggested that the online requirement could be enforced at the 'operating system level', meaning game developers don't necessarily need to be made aware of it.

In response to the report, a Microsoft rep said, "We do not comment on rumors or speculation. We are always thinking about what is next for our platform, but we don't have anything further to share at this time."

This backs a report from our colleagues at Edge, who cited sources claiming that next-gen Xbox games will require an internet connection in order to function, and that a passcode system will block second-hand game use.

These claims were later reinforced by screenshots reportedly taken from a Durango software development kit, which indicated the requirement of an always-on connection.

Sony has confirmed that the PlayStation 4 'will not demand an always-online connection'.

It has been speculated that Microsoft will announce its next-generation Xbox platform at a special event in late April.

The next Xbox, codename Durango, is said to utilise an AMD eight-core x64 1.6GHz CPU, a D3D11.x 800MHz graphics solution and 8GB of DDR3 RAM.

Posted: Apr 04, 2013 8:43 pm
Related Forum: Xbox Forum

Source: http://www.computerandvideogames.com/399237/new-sources-back-always-online-next-gen-xbox-rumour/