With the running track record that MS has had with it’s next generation console I really wonder how the new Xbox 360 TID will shape up. I see MS is already updating the dashboard to accomodate for their new device so one would hope that it would run with smooth sails, but then again lets go to the video tape of shotty hardware releases - the always popular RROD 360’s and Flaming Wireless racing wheels. What do you think?
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Yep, Microsoft finally officially announced the price of their TID (text input device), the new Messenger kit will be launched on September 4th and cost us $29.99.
Features:
Chat on Xbox LIVE with ease featuring dedicated keys to letters and characters.
Don’t hamper your style—the Xbox 360 Chatpad attaches seamlessly to your Xbox 360 Controller.
Backlit buttons allow you to accurately type words even in dimly lit environments.
Messenger Kit includes the Xbox 360 Wired Headset for the ultimate communication bundle.
Check out the special edition Texter from Phantasy Star Universe here. It does not show what it looks like but it tells you it comes with stickers, posters, a code for a free t-shirt and a special metal case. Of most importance though is the disclaimer on the bottom that states “This product will not function with any wireless control device, including the Official Xbox 360 Wireless Controller.” Well isn’t that a kick in the teeth, no wireless love for our great new Texter, then what is the point? So I need to buy a wired controller to work this thing, I am quickly disappointed.
::Update:: This is the Texter not the TID, got them mixed up by the way the SEGA site read, my apologies for any confusion.
Ok let me start off by saying that this update was way overhyped for what it brought to the table. It has some nice features, mainly the downloading functionality has improved, which is real nice. You can now download demos and things while playing games, I was playing MLB 2k7 and downloading the Forza Demo. There is also a new blade for the market place, which should shave a few seconds from finding it the old way.
The other main feature that everyone was waiting for was the messaging feature and let me say that I am thoroughly underwhelmed. I see no point in this feature other than leaving messages for people while they are playing games, but you could already do that. I tried the messenger funciton out last night and it is a bit of a pain to set up, and typing with the soft keyboard stinks! I guess this is negligible if you have a USB keyboard, but I think people will much prefer to use the new Microsoft TID device (mini blackberry on your controller).
What I really want to see for the next update would be group voice chats. That would be a real nice feature to have since sometimes you want to talk to some buddies in a group instead of flipping back and forth from private chats. Come on MS hook a brother up!
Microsoft released some official pictures of the new TID for the Xbox 360 controller. It plugs into the headset jack on the bottom. What bothers me is there doesn’t seem to be a headset jack on the bottom of the TID, meaning you either get no voice chat or you need a wireless headset to use it.
More pictures after the jump.
[Update] Engadget has confirmed that the TID will ship with it’s own unique headset, since there is no pass-through for the regular 360 headset.
