Hi folks, Cooper Hawkes here, asking you to take this with a heavy grain of salt:
 
Engadget is reporting that the next Xbox 360 will have HDMI built in. (They even have a very convincing picture to boot.)
 
Here's the text:
 
Ever wonder why Microsoft hasn't released an HDMI cable for the Xbox 360, or whether the AV port was really capable of digital out? Well, here's your answer: we landed pictures of what appears to be the second Xbox 360 -- the Xbox 360 v2, if you will -- codenamed Zephyr. (The original Xbox 360, if you recall, was codenamed Xenon.) The long rumored about and awaited update to the console won't just feature a new, cooler 65nm processor, it's also finally added an HDMI port for full digital 1080p pleasure, as well as a 120GB drive, just what the doctor ordered. The 120GB drive may or may not come bundled with the kit, we don't yet know, just as we also don't yet know how much a Zephyr 360 is going to run (we imagine it'll go for the same price as currently so they can keep up a little on their expanding margin). But our very kind Xbox insider seemed happy to let us know we'd be able to get them "soon."
 
And here's the rant:

Future proof huh? You made the system future proof to be able to handle whatever comes along? You know what that implies to people like myself? That if you want it later, you can get it no matter WHEN you bought your Xbox 360.
 
If this is true, you are a bunch of scum sucking dickheads who need to be put into a boiling vat of acid inches at a time.
 
I've played devils advocate, I've defended, I've hoped, I've dreamed, I've taken your words from IGN that the 360 is capable of digital video out, and held onto it tighter than a father holds a crying child. If this turns out to be true, you better have an alternate plan for your loyal fan base. The ones that got you to nearly 10 million consoles by the end of 2007. I can guarantee you right now that if you say: "The new Xbox 360's will have HDMI built in, but if you have an original, no problem, here's a dongle for a reasonable price!" then you will have my gratitude, forgiveness, and every fan on the planet who trusted you when you said: "We're watching the market" will feel quite satisfied.
 
The cat's out of the bag Microsoft. I don't know if you were planning on holding this for CES or for (whatever lame new name for E3) July, but whatever the case. Either start categorically denying the Engadget story, or release a press statement with full explanation.
 
I'm not the type of guy who tells a company: "You owe us!" because that's not the way it works in business. I recognize and understand that. But you ARE the company that says: "We listen to our community" and if this is true you think Horse Armor was controversial?
 
Just wait.
 
Now, before someone starts bitching that "But it's not necessary, blah-di-dah" Yes, I understand that. There's VGA which can easily push 1080p. There's (a small amount) of Televisions which can also push out 1080p using component. I understand the technical complexities of the issue. What has my blood turning ice cold is just the idea, that the "completely customizable" console, where you don't have to "$200 extra for something that may be the next Betamax." down a customer's throat, in the end, does have a limitation that cannot be gotten past without a re-purchase of the console.
 
Consider your ass on notice Microsoft. You did well for me with getting my Xbox 360 back fast, but this is complete and utter bullshit.

Fess up, or deny. You have until the end of CES.
 
Then I really get angry.
 
Wanna comment on this? Head to our forums.
 
Semper Fi!