Microsoft is planning to launch a $99 Xbox console package with a monthly subscription as early as next week, according to our sources. The software giant will offer the 4GB console with a Kinect sensor at its range of Microsoft Stores in the US, subsidized with a monthly cost of $15. We're told that the two-year subscription will provide access to the Xbox Live Gold service and possibly some additional streaming content from cable providers or sports package providers. Customers who sign-up for the deal will also be covered under a two-year warranty.
There will be an early termination fee for those wishing to break the contract ahead of its two-year duration, and we understand that Microsoft will position the package as a competitor to Apple TV, Roku, and PlayStation 3. For those buying the bundle now and getting the cheapest two-year Xbox Live Gold option, that's about $299.00 + $120 = $420 vs. $459 over a duration of two years. With E3 2012 on the horizon, and Microsoft working on a "Woodstock" music service — it's clear that the company wants to ensure as many people as possible have an Xbox in their living rooms.
Source: http://www.theverge.com/2012/5/2/2993600/99-xbox-360-kinect-…
Microsoft to launch $99 Xbox 360 + Kinect bundle + 2 Year Subscription (with a catch)
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Last edited 03/05/2012 - 08:55
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With the ability to buy Xbox Live 12 month subscriptions at $35 through Amazon (occasionally, I think it's usually $45.), and generally pretty cheap deals around on the 360, I can't see this deal being worth it unless there's alot of premium content they wish to bundle with it.
It's likely that we'll be getting new consoles next year too, which will drive down the prices of the current ones.
It is actually a smart move consider the amount of paid content on XBox in US. Not gonna work in current Oz market though.
If that works would it evolve to something bigger? MS can charge a fix monthy fee with contract terms and bundle with lasted Window OS + online free movie, storage, music content + offer free PC hardware during contract terms to lock people in.
No one need to buy computer hardware anymore, just wait til contract ended or upgrade you plan to get an upgrade new PC…..
Heh, sounds like a phone plan… Lock em in!
I can see a subsequent offer being a bundled Windows phone