Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer spoke at the Executive's Club of Chicago today, reportedly informing attendees that a new Xbox 360 will arrive in 2010, one equipped with a "natural interface" and built-in camera. Sound familiar?
According to TG Daily's recount of Ballmer's talk, in which he discussed "the role of innovation in changing economic times," the executive made mention of a new Xbox 360 configuration, one that Microsoft hasn't exactly denied.
Either Ballmer has been reading 1UP, who recently ran a rumor that Microsoft would be re-launching the Xbox 360 next year with its Project Natal tech built into the device, or he's the CEO of Microsoft for chrissakes.
It makes a great deal of sense to bundle the tech with the stock Xbox 360, as built-in support for a Natal-powered version of the box would ensure greater software support. And Microsoft's Shane Kim recently told Kotaku that the size of the launch of Natal would be on par with a new generation console launch.
Clearly, Microsoft also has designs on launching a version of its motion and depth-sensing camera as a peripheral, so current Xbox 360 owners don't have to upgrade to an all new box. 1UP's story on the "Xbox Natal" indicated that the device would also see a hardware spec boost, but it appears Ballmer didn't drop details on that.
We've contacted Microsoft to get one more comment on the matter and will update when we hear back.
Ballmer announces 2010 Xbox 360 at The Executive Club Chicago [TG Daily]