Xbox 360 gets HDMI port

Microsoft has confirmed that new Xbox 360 Premium consoles will also come with a HDMI port as standard.

The news follows hot on the heels of the company’s decision to cut the price of the Xbox 360 console in the US by $50.

The addition of a HDMI port will make it very simple for people to hook up their consoles to high definition TVs (HDTVs), as opposed to using the awkward HD AV cable that comes with all Xbox 360s. The HDMI port will also negate one of the key advantages held by Sony’s PS3.

The newer and more expensive Elite version of the Xbox 360, due later this month, was thought to be only 360 getting a HDMI port but Microsoft has surprised the market by saying that new Xbox 360 Premium consoles will have one too. The entry-level Xbox Core system, however, will not be getting a HDMI port.

In a statement, a Microsoft spokesman told Shack News: "Yes, we are offering an HDMI port for Xbox 360 simply as another choice in Xbox 360 owners' games and entertainment experience. Retailers are gradually introducing HDMI-enabled Xbox 360s into the channel to meet demand. We have not announced any plans to add HDMI to the Xbox 360 Core System. "

Consumers will be able to tell if they are getting one of the newer console as the packaging will sport the HDMI logo.