Microsoft Introduces Xbox Wireless Adapter

Sept. 16 - Microsoft Corp. introduces Xbox Wireless Adapter, the only comprehensive, first-party solution for high-performance Xbox gaming without the hassle of wires. Gamers no longer need to drill holes and run cumbersome wires from a broadband Internet connection to an Xbox video game system located in another room of the house. Co-developed by Xbox and Microsoft Broadband Networking, the Xbox Wireless Adapter enables gamers to play wirelessly on the Xbox Live service from an Xbox-connected television in the home by adding Xbox to an existing 802.11g or 802.11b Wi-Fi network.

The Xbox Wireless Adapter offers simple setup and powerful security through an exclusive Xbox interface on the dashboard. A simple setup process will configure the Xbox Wireless Adapter to the network. Premier security features including Wired Equivalent Privacy help ensure the network is uncompromised.

With an 802.11g network, gamers on Xbox Live can experience speeds of up to 54 Mbps -- up to five times that of a typical 802.11b Wi-Fi network. Maximum network range and throughput, available only with 802.11g, improve the quality of multiplayer and head-to-head gaming, live chats and more.

Scheduled Retail Availability: Oct. 5, 2003
Pricing: $139 (U.S. estimated retail price)(*)
Why: -- Thirty million Americans log on to the Internet at home with a broadband connection. (**) -- Xbox Live, the only dedicated broadband online gaming service, has taken off, with a worldwide subscriber base of more than 500,000 users participating in more than 15 million game sessions every week. -- Xbox and the broadband Internet connection are often in different rooms, requiring drilling and running cumbersome wires.

(*) Actual retail price may vary.
(**) Pew Internet & American Life Project, May 2003

SOURCE Microsoft