Microsoft’s $399 2TB Xbox One S Launches August 2nd

xbox one s retail box
When Microsoft officially announced the Xbox One S just over a month ago, it revealed that the console would be available in three storage capacities: 500GB, 1TB and 2TB priced at $299, $349 and $399 respectively. The first model that will be available to purchase is the 2TB console, which Microsoft at the time said would be available in August.

Today, Microsoft got a lot more specific with that launch date, confirming that the 2TB Xbox One S will ship on August 2nd. Those that have already pre-ordered the 2TB Xbox One S will have their consoles arrive on the same date. If you haven’t already preordered the console, you can still do so directly from Microsoft or from retailers like Amazon or Best Buy.

XboxOneSInline2

The launch edition of the Xbox One S, which is painted in “Robot White”, is 40 percent smaller than the original Xbox One and supports 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) content. Microsoft also ditched the dedicated port on the back of the console that was reserved for the Kinect sensor -- those that still want to hook up the Kinect can do with a USB adapter that Microsoft is providing for free.

Other features of the console include a new IR blaster and a third, front-front-mounted USB port that joins the two that remain on the back of the console. The wireless controller has also been updated with revised texturing that makes it easier to grip for extended gaming sessions and now finally includes Bluetooth support.

“With the biggest blockbuster lineup of games in Xbox history coming to Xbox One and Windows 10 this year, platform updates to help you stay connected with friends on Xbox Live with even more games across your favorite devices and more hardware options available, 2016 and beyond is looking to be an incredible time to be an Xbox gamer,” writes Matt Lapsen, General Manager for Xbox Devices Marketing.

The Xbox One S is just a small baby step in the evolution of the Xbox One console. Late next year, we will see the release of Project Scorpio, which will have 6 TFLOPs of computing power and will support virtual reality gaming.