Microsoft has thrown out some sandbags and jumped into the trenches to defend its decision to not include a headset with the Xbox One console.
A headset will be available at launch, but will be sold separately (price unconfirmed as yet), and this has given people cause to complain due to the fact that the Xbox One uses a proprietary connector for headsets, meaning that if they want to use earphones, they won't even be able to plug in a set that they already own.
In speaking to Ars Technica, the company has said that because the console comes with Kinect, you don't really need a headset. "Each Xbox One includes the new Kinect sensor, with a highly sensitive multi-array microphones designed to enable voice inputs and chat as a system-level capability, both in-game and with Skype and other experiences. For gamers who prefer a headset, we have a variety of offerings that you can find on the Xbox Wire."
This is a bit of a lame excuse, if we're honest. Opponents bellowing through the TV speakers isn't fun, as most of us have found out with the Xbox 360.
We're sure that third parties will be launching their own Xbox One-compatible headsets around the time of the Xbox One launch, but that's hardly the point.
[source arstechnica.com]
Comments 10
Honestly I think I used my 360 headset once maybe twice and that was for Metallica Guitar Hero. I ended up selling mine to a friend awhile go so he could play Halo on his 360.
So, we wouldn't even be able to use the sets we already own? I've heard people using Kinect for a headset. It picks up a lot of feedback from the TV since it's right below it. Maybe they've fixed this time to isolate the player's voice but I doubt it's perfect. Maybe Bluetooth headsets still work?
seems a little odd that Microsoft would leave this out of the box at launch and go on to describe the headset as being a "must have" item.
Pretty poor decision not to give one of these or even something like the (rather poo but still useful) sony ear bud headset.
Im really starting to grow tired of Microsoft now.
Windows 8 sucks - but I have no other realistic option.
Windows phone 8 sucks - but im tied to it for another 18 months
and Xbox One is nothing but a cash cow
Thinking of ditching all Microsoft products once and for all if I can
Yeah, don't want to hear Kinect voice coming back through the TV, or jump into an online game to hear a kid getting shouted of a parent or having bad language blasted through my speakers for the whole house to hear.
At this rate its looking at £500 to own an Xbox One, a game and a headset to talk to people : (
I can understand them not bundling one in, but defending the choice with Kinect? Using that to chat reminds of using Nintendo's ill-conceived Wii Speak.
Most people who are serious about online gaming go out and buy more expensive headsets anyway. One included with the system would be nice but it's not a huge deal to leave it out.
@szchifo
The problem is all 3 of the console makers try to bend consumers over one way or another. I don't think Nintendo includes any kind of chat device with the Wii U and if you want motion control for PS4, better be prepared to shell out some extra $.
@Gamer83 It does have a mic in the Wii U gamepad, but if you are using one of their 360-style controllers for it or the Wii one (but what game w/ voice chat would need that?) you'll need a headset.
I wonder if the wireless ones will still work?
I bought one of those funky wireless/blue tooth switching ones.
Oh boy, Mommy n' Daddy is not going to like that naughty language over Xbox live with Kinect only mic.
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