Microsoft replacing Xbox 360’s not compatible with new Firmware Update

The unreleased Spring update for the Xbox 360 is right already causing problems.  It seems some Xbox owners are going to need a hardware update in order to take advantage of the new firmware.

Microsoft has begun emailing users that they have detected through Xbox Live will have incompatible systems for the update.  Microsoft writes in these emails that these users can have their current Xbox 360 replaced with a brand new Xbox 360 S with a 250GB hard drive along with a year of Xbox Live, all for FREE.  Talk about customer service.

The reason a new system is that new firmware will be required is due to the new disc format that MS is releasing for Xbox 360.  The new discs have one extra Gigabyte of data for developers to use for game space.  Certain models have DVD drives that will not accept the update and will not be able to play new retail game discs without it.

For those who aren’t aware of the improvements of the Xbox 360 S models, besides much larger memory, the system now has the Wi-Fi adapter built-in, a sleek and smaller design, along with more power-conservative components and extra vents to prevent over heating and the Red Ring of Death.

While Microsoft doesn’t detail how users will redeem their replacement after contacting them, it’s safe to assume that those affected users will have to send in their old systems to MS.  Much like when getting a repair job for the system, the user will get to keep their current hard drive.  Unfortunately, the old hard drives are not compatible with the new systems, so users will either have to back up their data to a USB device before shipping off the ‘Box, or purchase the transfer kit ($20) when they get in their new box.  Still, that’s a small price to pay considering the free hardware upgrade and a free year of Xbox Live (a $350 value).

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