Just a quick post on the Dashboard update. I'm very happy about the feature list and while listening to
Major Nelson's latest podcast Larry said the Avatars would be completely optional and that any gamer pics themes and bought would work or be brought over to the new service.
However Two main features I'm mainly looking forward to.
As you can see from my desk my Xbox 360 sits very close to me (about 1.5-2feet away) and while playing a game when the disc spins up the system produces much unnecessary noise. I thought Microsoft would fix this with better, more silent DVD drives but the HD install is a nice option. (Also Larry said that this was OPTIONAL for games, you will NOT have to install ANY game)
The other thing is the 16:10 support. I have my 360 hooked up to my PC on a 22" Samsung monitor and the 1680X1050 native resolution is finally being supported :D very pleased about this because running in 1280X1024 in wide-screen mode makes some games look kind of crappy. So it's basically a visual upgrade matching 1:1 pixels for me.
Very pleased with the update. Now all Microsoft have to do is release the sucker. FALL, only thing is that is way to far away from now. I won't say hurry it because no doubt this update will probably brick quite a few consoles.
I've been Lucky and haven't had the dreaded Red ring of death.
-Adam
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Unless they are going to include some decent filtering/sorting options on this shiny new dashboard I don't really care, it really needs it and effectively reskinning for no other reason than aesthetics would be retarded.
Secondly: My monitor is 19" wide-screen and I have no problems, I had no idea the 22" had resolution issues :O *shocks*.
Third: I am happy you have brought me news of avatars being optional and gamerpics and themes still working with the system. I heart you!
Without a doubt, the HD installs are the most unexpected thing to come out of Microsoft for the entire history of the 360. AMAZING news!
The dashboard always seemed so cluttered... this new clean look (regardless of its influences) is much appreciated.
Also, I'm totally going to mooch some movies from my mom's Netflix account once in a while!
Also, looking forward to the full installs for games like GTA and Oblivion to help with streaming. I wonder if they will allow installs on USB drives?
You can almost assuredly say no to USB drives. My understanding is that external drive functionality is limited as it is (not bothered trying it yet). I'll bet my balls with MS pushing a new 60GB SKU and trying to boost sales of the super wallet rapeage of the 120GB drive that installs will be limited to official HDDs.
The fact that they created a stupid proprietary case for a standard 2.5" drive and employed methods to lock data on the disc kinda makes their stance on the issue obvious. Bastards.
Avatars be optional?!!
Oh yes, I love it now.
And I'm gonna start playing on my computer monitor, so my mum can stop BITCHING about the TV.