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Week of March 18, 2007
XLink Kai: KaidCommander v0.2.7 RC2 for Mac OS X
>> From teamxlink.co.uk:
[QUOTE]
OS X users rejoice! You no longer need to open up Terminal or manually edit config files to run Kai(info) on your Mac. Our newest addition to the developer team, ScottyDelicious, has graced us with the latest revision of KaidCommander. An OS X App that bundles kaid, jKaiUI, and Amaryllis in one slick app. There is also a configure editor neatly contained in a panel drawer.
As this is a release candidate, ScottyDelicious has asked for user feedback and feature requests to help refine KaidCommander for version one. Please post any issues, questions, suggestions, etc to XLink's Macintosh forum.
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: www.teamxlink.co.uk
Download: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox Backup Creator v2.5
>> Redline99 released a new version of Xbox Backup Creator(info), a tool that will allow you to easily dump, create/patch and burn Xbox and Xbox 360 images with full support for SS, DMI and PFI.
What's new/fixed:
* Lost - Change log due to bad happenings on my USB KeyDrive (Below is what I can remember, I'm sure there was more though)
* Added - Ability to replace file in ISO (Up to user to know what they are doing). Easy to replace with a smaller file or Replace with a file that falls within same sector space. The file entry in the Dir Table will be patched to the correct new file size. Possible corruption if you replace with a file larger than the original. Use at your own risk.
* Changed - FW Branding Check to be disabled by default
* Changed - A couple tool tips to reflect correct verbiage
* Changed - DVD Finalize time-outs
* Changed - Command line parameters to ImgBurn depending on version. This is to deal with the .dvd message if it exists.
* Fixed - 64bit IO in Image Browser
Official Site: n/a, by Redline99
Download: here
News-Source: xbins.org
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XboxMediaCenter (XBMC) 2007-03-23 SVN rev8306 build - T3CH
>> T3CH released a new SVN compile (rev8306) of XboxMediaCenter(info) for Xbox1.
This T3CH-compile is a complete snapshot of what is in SVN at the time the build was compiled, with just a few small additions.
Special Notes and Noteworthy/XML/Script changes:
* Wow, SVN sure wasn't in great shape when I built last time. Team XBMC may have fixed the 'launch xbe issue' now, but if it doesn't work for you, they've added more logging to get to the bottom of this. This is also why I'm releasing this build earlier than usual.
* There's no new mplayer TEST version since my last build, but you can still report issues with old TEST here It's located in the TEST subfolder, simply replace the 2 files in XBMC/system/players/mplayer/ if you want to help Team XBMC test it.
* I've also tweaked the win32 run_me_first.bat so it runs and then unmounts the virtual drives when you exit.
* I'm also including the XBMC Win32 PC environment.exe that is meant for skinners & python developers, read more about the concept here. It was built using Microsoft DirectX Summer 2004 SDK.
For the full changelog (all added/fixed/changed/updated stuff) since the 2007-03-18 SVN Rev8233 build click here.
Keep in mind this is a SVN snapshot of the current development tree. It's not an official (stable) point release. Use only if you know what you are doing.
Official XBMC Site: www.xboxmediacenter.com (manual and FAQ)
Official T3CH Site: http://217.118.215.116 (release RSS feed)
Download Binaries: n/a (built with XDK) | Download SourceCode: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox Live Security Update: Accounts 'Hacked' via Social Engineering
>> Microsoft already reported that there was no evidence of any compromise of Live Network or Bungie.net, today they come with another update:
[QUOTE]
Earlier this week when I first heard about the "Xbox Live network hacked" story, I checked with the people on our end, and then posted about it. As originally posted, Xbox Live has not been hacked. That is still true. A security researcher, Kevin Finisterre, discovered not a hack, but the fact that some accounts may have been compromised as a result of 'social engineering', also known as 'pre-texting', through our support center. Kevin gave me a call directly and once I realized what he was talking about (he sent me some painful-to-listen-to audio files) I confirmed that the team is fully aware of this issue. They are examining the policies, and have already begun re-training the support staff and partners to help make sure we reduce this type of social engineering attack.
There's no other way to say it; this situation shouldn't have happened. Our customers deserve better.
The Xbox team takes what happened and the resolution of it very seriously. I also wanted to let you know that we've posted a page on Xbox.com 'Troubleshooting Access to your Xbox Live Account' that can help you if you have questions. Finally, I chatted with Kevin earlier today and thanked him for bringing this issue to our attention. I also let him know that we have a much better understanding of this issue and that we are reviewing the processes in place to help prevent this in the future.
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Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Microsoft to Support Blu-ray Eventually - But not allowed to say so
>> Speaking to the BBC, Xbox UK head Neil Thompson is quoted as saying:
[QUOTE]
"Whatever format wins it is highly likely we will offer a solution. The only debate is if you want to watch Blu-ray movies and pay the extra money for that feature. We prefer to offer the consumer choice."
[/QUOTE]
But Microsoft's PR people, were quickly seeking to set the record straight and send this to spong.com:
[QUOTE]
The article implies that Neil is suggesting that Microsoft is going to support Blu-Ray. To confirm, this quote has been taken out of context and is not what Neil was implying. Microsoft offers, and fully supports, the HD-DVD format and offers consumers the choice of getting their HD movie content either via the optional HD-DVD player or via Xbox Live Video Marketplace (US only).
[/QUOTE]
Note: Microsoft officially supports the HD-DVD format atm so Toshiba probably doesn't like it when they say they would eventually support the Blu-ray format. But it's pretty obvious that if the HD-DVD format dies, Microsoft will support Blu-ray.
Full Story: bbc.co.uk and spong.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox Live Service Maintenance: March 27th
>> From Major Nelson (Microsoft's Xbox Live Director of Programming):
[QUOTE]
Xbox Live, Xbox.com and the Xbox forums will be undergoing scheduled maintenance on Tuesday March 27th (next week) from 0000 to 1400 PT. As a result of this maintenance, Xbox Live, Xbox.com and the Xbox forums will be unavailable during this time. I thought I'd give you enough time to plan next weeks gaming schedule. What to do while you can't hop on Xbox Live? Xbox.com has you covered with this list. This is purely 'back end' work that we scheduled months ago. This is not a dashboard update...that will happen later this Spring.
[/QUOTE]
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Microsoft Crashes PS3 Launch in France
>> From talkxbox.com:
[QUOTE]
The title is self explanatory. During Frances PS3 launch event, Microsoft couldn't help but crash the party. Apparently, "Xbox 360 Loves You". A boat with a banner draped at its side said just that to the PS3 shoppers while it chugged along down the canal.
[/QUOTE]
News-Source: talkxbox.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
InFeCtuS: Versatile Modchip for Xbox360, PS3, PS2 and Wii
>> The InFeCtuS modchip has been in development for some time already (we reported about prototypes back in December 2006). It's a versatile modchip that can be used for lots of things. On Xbox360 you can read/write/patch the DVD flash firmware or it can act like a Globe360 or NME 1.2 (soon) DVD FW modchip.
From infectus.biz:
[QUOTE]
InFeCtuS is the first versatile modchip ever released in the market, created to work with many different consoles. InFeCtuS will give you access to so many features that it's impossible to describe them all today, some are still in development and more will come in the future, just stay tuned on www.infectus.biz
We developed this modchip with an OPEN concept, we use a CORE reprogrammable, a 512kb flash on board and an USB interface for the PC communication.
The hardware has a very HIGH QUALITY component design:
* The core of INFECTUS is the new ACTEL ProASIC3 FAMILY, the new family after the famous APA075 used in the past in many PS2 projects.
* We used a 512Kb parallel flash SSTSF040, with a high transfer rate and performance.
* Finally, we have got a REAL USB2.0 processor. This high quality component can manage the communication between ACTEL and PC (mini usb connector).
* All of the chip PLD/FLASH/USB parts are 100% reprogrammable via USB communication.
* For security reasons, all of the applications stored in the flash are AES 128-bit encrypted, to protect our work against chinese market!
* The project is produced in Europe with the last technology of BSDL testing.
Being InFeCtuS so versatile, we want to show you at least a little part of its features, ordered by console.
XBOX360 SUPPORT:
* Allows to gain total access over the XBOX360 flash driver, so that you can read and write the internal flash of any X360 DVD READER in the market. Everything can be managed with a very simple and user friendly PC software.
* FLASH ID realtime patching, your xbox360 cannot understand if there is any flash running other than the original one.
* GLOBE MODCHIP 360 100% emulation including ON / OFF LED
* NME 1.2 firmware emulation (at work 80% finished). Allow you to install the chip with few wires like NME.
PS3 SUPPORT:
* The first work to be done is to allow our users to flash directly the PS3 BIOS by USB. So no more problem with firmwares, you can install everything you want, when you want. All the complications due to firmware versions that cannot be downgraded will not bother you anymore.
This solution will be released in the next 4 weeks!
* Another new feature that we want to add is a REAL TIME patching of the firmware part that you want to be emulated from the chip. Being the 512Kb flash not enough to store a real dual firmware, we'll have to wait for the first hacked firmware to understand if a "realtime" patching will be possible. In case we won't be able to find more ideas, a new version of Infectus with a memory expantion bay will be released.
PS2 SUPPORT:
* Complete O2 MODCHIP emulation 100% with all functionalities (www.o2mod.com) - Included for FREE
REMEMBER THAT O2 MOD IS THE ONLY ONE IN THE MARKET WITH "DNAS PATCH" AVAIABLE!!! DNAS PATCH IS NECESSARY TO HAVEN'T PROBLEMS IN ONLINE GAMING
WII SUPPORT:
Of course this is a free "bonus" in this mod because, we know, most of You wouldn't install such a big and expensive chip on a WII, but being it free... it's a good chance!
* WIIKEY / WIIFREE EMULATION: (under developement - 80% ready). This feature will allow you to play just everything you want on your WII.
SOFTWARE MANAGEMENT:
The possibility to manage the features using an easy software is one of the BIG advantages of this modchip solution!
* WIZARD help for the users: you will simply follow software's instruction step by step, everyone would be able to install and manage the INFECTUS MOD.
* When you will be ready to install INFECTUS on a DVD DRIVE 078 XBOX360 FIRMWARE, the software will assist you with a 100% automated extraction of the key and the patch of new firmware.
* WIZARD configuration based on XML for an automatical update of last firmwares.
* X360 FIRMWARE checksum, the software will tell you if you are actually using the correct firmware (this feature is only available in WIZARD procedure)
* HELP section to allow an easy searching of X360 firmwares
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: www.infectus.biz
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
MS sends CVG the difference between 360 and PS3... in beer!
>> From computerandvideogames.com:
[QUOTE]
Wheeled into our office this afternoon by a special ops team of beer couriers was this £146 pile of Fosters on behalf of one Microsoft Corporation. Was it because of our gushing GDC coverage? No, apparently MS has a more specific reason for its generous gift.
"What would you purchase for £146...? (The price difference between an Xbox 360 and a PlayStaion 3)", asks the included Xbox 360-headed notice. "Well, for a start we thought you might like £146 worth of beer to kick start your weekend early."
Signed, "Jump in. Xbox 360. The Leader in the next generation of gaming and entertainment."
[/QUOTE]
Full Story & Picture: computerandvideogames.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
First Xbox 360 Elite pics? Probably Not.
>> From engadget.com:
[QUOTE]
We can't guarantee that any black Xboxen from here until the launch of the Xbox 360 Elite won't just be shots of the original 360 dev kit that was sent around, but we've already got our first batch of "confirmada" Elite pics that sprung up.
Update: Our trusted source that confirmed the Elite let us know that these shots are quite fishy; they don't have the same plastics details as the real Elite, nor does the retail box match up.
[/QUOTE]
Note: the black 'Elite' Xbox360 with 120GB HD and HDMI is really coming out however, but not announced officially by MS yet.
News-Source: engadget.com and consolas.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Rumor: New Xbox 360 and add-on HDD to include data cable?
>> From joystiq.com:
[QUOTE]
It looks like Microsoft might have a heart and will possibly be including a data-retention cable with the new and improved, back-in-black Xbox 360 model. Ars Technica has a line on a secret source who lets it slip that Microsoft had sent a new SKU for the upgraded unit, which specifies that this cable will be included.
Additionally, the same source says that the cable will be included with the standalone 120GB HDD as well, which hasn't officially been announced yet. Will the cable and the HDD be available in both black and white?
[/QUOTE]
Full Story: joystiq.com and arstechnica.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Vision Beta Skin for XBMC by NineT9Mustang
>> From Team Blackbolt:
[QUOTE]
Today we bring you the first of hopefully many XBMC skins created by users outside of Team Blackbolt but hosted here on our site. 'Vision' is a sleak, dark, glassy skin that uses many new ideas never tried before in XBMC. It is a truley unique skin, through navigation and layout. The author NineT9Mustang, has worked with our own Jezz_X since October 2006 to bring you this first beta.
NineT9Mustang has a solid development plan ahead of him, this being stage 4, the first Beta stage. He plans to take as much feedback as possible through emails and the forums to help make vision better for his next stage, Beta 2.
[/QUOTE]
Download/Screenshots/Info: blackbolt.x-scene.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Orb Networks: Free PC To TV Service For 17 Million Households
>> From the press release:
[QUOTE]
Orb Networks announced that starting today more than 17 million households with gaming consoles worldwide can now enjoy and share all of the digital entertainment on their home PCs directly on their living room TV screen, using the company's free MyCasting software as the bridge. The announcement comes as Apple begins shipping its Apple TV.
Orb MyCasting now works with the Microsoft Xbox 360, the world's largest game console installed base, as well as the Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation3, giving gamers the ability to bring all digital media to their TV screen without any additional costs or hardware requirements.
Orb turns the home PC into a personal broadcasting system, and lets users build and organize their own "channels" to enjoy their music, photos, video, TV, documents and other extras for viewing on any device with a streaming media player and Internet connection. The free MyCasting software allows you to enjoy all digital media from your home PC, as well as online videos from the growing source of Internet TV and content sites, on any networked device with an internet browser - be it other PCs, lap tops, PDAs or mobile phones with streaming players. And now, TV with gaming consoles including the Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3.
How Orb Works with your game console:
1. Download load Orb at www.orb.com (Version v2.00.0856 or higher) onto your always-on Windows PC at home. It takes less than 3 minutes to do.
2. For the Wii and PS3, turn on the TV that is connected to your game console and open your Web browser. Using your remote control or controller, log onto your Orb account through your game console at mycast.orb.com.
3. For the XBox 360, go to the media tab and select the media type (video, photos, or music) you want to play on your TV. Click "computer" from the list of options, and you will see a list of the computers running Orb on your LAN. Select one and then pick from the available video, photos, or music.
4. That's it. Now enjoy, watch and listen to any digital content on your home PC - videos, music, Internet TV and radio or any other online content you programmed in your Orb MyCast application: they are now all airing on your TV screen.
[/QUOTE]
Read the full press release: orb.com
Official Site: www.orb.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xeno Top Gear Installation Video
>> From xenotopgear.com
[QUOTE]
We at XENO TOP GEAR have shipped out our first 3 thousand units to retailers.
Consumers out there should be able to buy from any one of our official resellers shortly :) with the "made in Taiwan"; "made in China" issue, we would like to clearify that Taiwan is a part of China and lot of "Taiwan Factories" make their products in China and ship out of Taiwan, the competition is simply playing with words to fool consumers so that they can continue to be greedy and rip off consumers.
Finally, we would like to reassure the level of quality of our product. We will let 3rd party reviewers have the final judgement.
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: www.xenotopgear.com
Buy Now ($45): ModchipStore.com | Divineo.com | ModChip.com | Divineo.cn
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Microsoft: No Evidence of any Compromise of Live Network or Bungie.net
>> From Larry Hryb (Microsoft's Xbox Live Director of Programming):
[QUOTE]
Despite some recent reports and speculation, I want to reassure all of our 6 million Xbox Live members that we have looked into the situation and found no evidence of any compromise of the security of the Xbox Live Network or Bungie.net. There have been a few isolated incidents where malicious users have been attempting to draw personal information from unsuspecting users and use it to gain access to their LIVE account. This is a good time to remind our members that they should never give out any of their personal information. Additionally it may be a good idea to download this free PDF file from Microsoft.com 'Help Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft' that gives you some excellent information and tips on how to protect yourself.
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Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xecuter Blaster360 Website Launched
>> From Team Xecuter:
[QUOTE]
We are pleased to finally launch the Blaster360 website - www.team-xecuter.com/blaster360
There are still a few tutorials and other pages we are working on and they should be ready in the next day or so. Everything you will need will be there.
We would also like to answer competitors claims that we lie about our products not being made in China. Of course we don't manufacture in China. We have always found the quality to be poor hence the cheap nature of many of the goods we have seen from there. All our products are - and have always been - made in Taiwan.
Competitors also like to boast how fantastic their Quality Assurance is too - we'll let the pictures do the talking...
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: www.team-xecuter.com/blaster360
Blaster360 Installation Guide: here
Buy Blaster360 ($75/€59/£40): Divineo USA/CAN | ModchipStore USA/CAN | ShopNeo UK | MrModchips Europe/UK | Divineo Asia
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Bill Gates can't play soccer games (or he's a good faker)
>> From joystiq.com:
[QUOTE]
During a promotional event celebrating Microsoft's twentieth anniversary in Mexico, Bill Gates lost to professional Mexican soccer player Rafael Marquez 2-1 in a virtual game of soccer on the 360. The game was played in front of a crowd of Microsoft employees on three jumbo trons.
And in proper fashion, the two exchanged signed product after the match; Gates giving Marquez a 360 with wired controllers, and Marquez giving Gates a Barcelona camiseta.
[/QUOTE]
Full Story: joystiq.com and spong.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Rumor: Walmart Selling HD-DVD 360 Addon for 130usd?
>> From kotaku.com:
[QUOTE]
What? It's already over? Over at Cheapassgamer.com, folks are posting that the Xbox 360 HD DVD player is being marked down at Walmart to US $130 from its retail price of $199.99. What's more, apparently Walmart has cleared out its HD DVD players. Reader superatt sends word that The New York Post reports that HD DVD is being outsold by Blu-ray -- Since the PS3 went on sale, Blu-ray sales have jumped to nearly three times that of HD DVD.
[/QUOTE]
Full Story: kotaku.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Microsoft Probes Possible Xbox Live Fraud
>> From zdnet.com:
[QUOTE]
Microsoft is investigating possible fraud on its Xbox Live online gaming service, the company said Tuesday.
The investigation comes after gamers reported having their Xbox Live accounts hijacked and their credit cards used to buy "Microsoft Points," the virtual currency on Xbox Live, which has more than 6 million users.
"Recently, there have been reports of fraudulent activity and account theft taking place on the Xbox Live network," a Microsoft representative said in a statement provided to CNET News.com. "Security is a top priority for Xbox Live, and we are actively investigating all reports of fraudulent behavior and theft."
Gamers have been reporting the incidents for some time in online forums--including on Xbox.com--and to Microsoft's Xbox help desk. Many users of the Microsoft console have been frustrated with the software giant's response to date.
While some users believe the security of Xbox Live was breached, others suggest that users were tricked into giving up enough information while in a game so fraudsters could call Microsoft to change the account information. Users may also have been duped into giving up their account information through phishing scams.
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Full Story: zdnet.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Five things Microsoft needs to do to fix the Zune
>> From engadget.com:
[QUOTE]
We're not trying to hate, but we think it's about time Microsoft acknowledged that the ball's been dropped -- and then pick it back up. Stop promising bug fixes and vaporous new features, and stop talking about future Zune products when the current product is ailing. Here are five simple things Microsoft should do to fix the Zune right now, and even make it into a somewhat aggressive contender in one of the most cutthroat gadget categories. In order:
1. Fix the DRM, syncing, and system bugs, and get firmware v1.3 out the door!
2. Add useful WiFi features: wireless streaming to friends, Zune Pass (subscription) song transfer to friends' Zunes (á la MusicGremlin), computer-free downloads content downloads.
3. Add podcast and vidcast support. It doesn't even have to be as comprehensive as the iTMS, just a basic RSS reader / enclosure scraper or something.
4. Increase codec support. Go out on a limb and add open (read: free) codecs like FLAC, APE, OGG, XviD; if you really want to make your customers happy, belly up to the bar and license DivX.
5. Drop the price. For most consumers, there is still a huge mental barrier in paying $250 for a Zune when you can pay the same $250 for an iPod. One isn't necessarily better than the other, but people really love the iPod. Make it $230 MSRP, and let that sink down to like $210 for online retailers. People will freak out that this player, that does all these things it does, is barely more than two bills.
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Full Story: engadget.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Microsoft's Kim: Sony 'Helped Us With Their Own Missteps'
>> From gamasutra.com:
[QUOTE]
Talking to Gamasutra as part of an in-depth interview to be published tomorrow, Microsoft Game Studios corporate vice president Shane Kim has spoken on Xbox 360's current PR advantage, suggesting that "Sony has helped us with their own missteps", and praising Nintendo's "strong" Wii launch.
Specifically, when asked whether the current 'backlash' against the PlayStation 3, especially in Europe, is helping Xbox 360 sales, Kim replied: "I feel more confident about our competitive position today than when we launched the program. We've already got ten million units out there, we've got six million members on Xbox Live, we will have 320 Xbox 360 games available for customers by the end of this year."
He continued: "We're the leading game development platform, and I think we have the best exclusive content. Certainly I feel like we're executing our strategy, and it's running on all cylinders. Sony has helped us with their own missteps, and I'd be foolish not to say that it's not helping us. That's fine. I feel better about our competitive position than when we launched the platform."
[/QUOTE]
Full Story: gamasutra.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox 360 Elite: new, black limited edition Xbox with HDMI and 120GB drive
>> From engadget.com:
[QUOTE]
We've confirmed with trusted sources that the black Xbox 360 is indeed coming, and will be dubbed the Xbox 360 Elite. Here's what you need to know about it:
* The Elite will be limited quantities only; that may be as much or as little as a couple hundred thousand.
* The case, controller, and Live headset will all be black. It will have all new packaging.
* Elite will cost $479, and will be a 3rd SKU; it will be sold alongside Premium and Core packs.
* Eventually Elite hardware (in white plastics) will take the role of the Xbox Premium. That is to say, after the Elite is launched and sold out, future Xbox Premiums will have 120GB / HDMI.
* Elite models run cooler than normal 360s, but they are not yet confirmed to have 65nm chips.
[/QUOTE]
Full Story: engadget.com
Game Informer Magazine is also confirming the black Xbox360 in their upcoming issue.
Full Story: kotaku.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Linux Bootloader for xbox360 - XeLL *updated*
>> Well, thats what it looks like! Here's the readme:
XeLL is the Xenon Linux Loader.
It's a second-stage bootloader and is usually run by an exploit. The method of booting this is not a part of this project. XeLL catches CPU threads, sets them up (basically setting HRMOR to zero), loads an ELF file from either network (tftp) or CDROM, and launches it. It also contains a flat device tree for linux. cdrom.c includes a very simple ISO9660 parser, which tries to boot the file named ""vmlinux".
lwIP (http://www.sics.se/~adam/lwip/) is used for networking. Network config is currently hardcoded in network.c (and main.c). XeLL also contains a HTTP server. It is not really used.
XeLL is licensed under the GPL v2, and no other version. Xenon-specific stuff of XeLL was written by Felix Domke , other parts where taken from other free sourcecodes. No non-free hardware documentation was used for developing XeLL.
XeLL is in a very early stage, but is (most of the time) fully working
Grab it here - Keep in mind these sources will need to be compiled before they are ran on your xbox360.
In order to run this current loader, you will need to execute the compiled version through serial cable, after booting a modified shader via the king kong disc (with a firmware modded dvd-rom), and you will need to compile your own linux kernel aswell. This is obviously for the more savvy of the xbox users, but keep in mind this is a very early release with limited support (samsung sata drivers are not supported yet, but hitachi confirmed working great).
Felix Domke is apparently working on a linux live cd that will be easily booted for the more non-savvy users out there :)
Note (Xant): Of course you'll need an Xbox360 with the Hypervisor Vulnerability (kernel 4532 or 4548), it will not work with the new patched 4552 kernel.
Thanks to stonersmurf from xbh for his info and testing!
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Devil May Cry 4 Comes to Xbox360
>> From the press release:
[QUOTE]
Capcom Co., Ltd., a world-wide leader in the gaming industry, is proud to announce the development of "Devil May Cry 4" for the PLAYSTATION3, Xbox 360 and PC platforms.
"Devil May Cry" is a series of popular, stylish action games, with a cast of unforgettable characters. Since the release of the original "Devil May Cry" in 2001, the series has shipped 6,800,000 copies as of December 31st, 2006, proudly making it one of Capcom's flagship titles. The series appeal is not limited to games; an animated TV series to be broadcast on Japan's WOWOW network is slated to air Spring 2007. The latest iteration, "Devil May Cry 4" will take advantage of each platform's hardware strengths to achieve the most stunning visuals in the series to date, and the introduction of a mysterious new protagonist will keep the action fast and fresh. Even before its release, "Devil May Cry 4" has been met with tremendous anticipation, as fans patiently endured long lines at TOKYO GAME SHOW 2006 for the chance to play the demo. "Devil May Cry 4" will be released simultaneously for the PLAYSTATION3 and Xbox 360 platforms.
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Read the whole press release on capcom.co.jp
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox 360 Design: The Back Story
>> Fastcompany.com profiled JDK designer Michael Jager, and gives some insight into the design of the Xbox 360:
[QUOTE]
It was David versus Goliath, with Attila the Hun thrown in to make it interesting. Microsoft had invited three brand designers to Redmond, Washington, in 2004 to present a new identity for the upcoming Xbox 360. (...)
Led by Xbox's global brand director at the time, Don Hall, some 20 members of the gaming division gathered to hear the back-to-back-to-back presentations. First up was Michael Jager, JDK's creative director. Standing before the tribunal, Jager (pronounced like the Rolling Stone) illustrated his vision through a combination of street theater, design psychology, and cultural fluency. Comparing the original Xbox with the Incredible Hulk, Jager used a razor to slash an X in a sheet of paper and then thrust his head through the hole. "X today is all AARGGHHH!" he bellowed. Pure aggressive power. He then withdrew his head, flipped the paper, and revealed how that X could become a doorway, "an invitation to an experience." Jager acknowledged power as a critical component separating Xbox from its competitors but urged the company to see it--and express it-- differently. "Our approach was to transition Xbox from this hulk of escaping power into this quiet power that is lurking, something still incredibly dangerous but with more of an elegance and grace," he recalls. "The analogy we used was Bruce Lee." And thus were two firms felled by a single stone.
"We were all just blown away by JDK," Hall remembers. "As soon as Michael and his team walked out, I looked around the room and knew it was just a formality to sit through the other presentations." Indeed, Jager's illustrative shorthand became a mantra for the 360 team as it created the look and feel of the new system. "Whenever we evaluated our work in terms of guiding our decisions for Xbox 360," Hall says, "it was like, 'This is too Hulk' or 'We need more Bruce Lee.'"
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Full Story: fastcompany.com
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'Final Fantasy should come to Xbox 360', says Sakaguchi
>> From computerandvideogames.com:
[QUOTE]
After leaving the company to bring his RPG duo Blue Dragon and Lost Odyssey to Xbox 360, Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi says that Square Enix should bring Final Fantasy to Microsoft's console.
The Mistwalker boss told Gamespot: "I feel that the Final Fantasy series should come to Xbox 360 as well. This is wise. It makes so much sense to me...it has so much potential in North America and in Europe. So there's a great chance for the series to succeed on 360 as well."
Continuing the chat Sakaguchi-san suggested that Square Enix could port its upcoming PS3 instalment Final Fantasy XIII to 360 fairly simply, because "they made the White Engine open platform".
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Full Story: computerandvideogames.com
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Microsoft Responds to Nintendo's Comments
>> Microsoft responds via computerandvideogames to Fils-Aime's (Nintendo of America boss) statement that the Xbox360 isn't performing well in Europe:
[QUOTE]
Microsoft has told CVG that it is "very happy with how Xbox 360 is performing in Europe" in response to earlier claims made by Reggie Fils-Aime that the console was underperforming.
"We're very happy with how Xbox 360 is performing in Europe. We do not release figures by country, but we are on target to meet our goal of 12 million consoles sold worldwide by the end of June 2007, have sold more than 10.4 million consoles globally as of December 2006, and have built a global Xbox Live community of more than 6 million people.
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Full Story: computerandvideogames
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Analyst: Next-Gen Hardware Sales Are Disappointing
>> From teamxbox.com:
[QUOTE]
GameDaily.biz reports a note issued by Deutsche Bank's Jeetil Patel, in which the analyst labels sales for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 as "poor."
"Next-gen hardware sell-through of 700K units in Feb-07 brought its total HW installed base to 8.0mn in the US, still 30% less than the prior cycle at 11.2mn units at equivalent stages. Xbox 360 (230K) and PS3 (130K) unit sales were below expectations of 250K-300K and 200K respectively. Retail checks reveal that ample supply exists, suggesting a demand problem for next-gen consoles," explained Patel.
"Particularly disappointing is Xbox 360 HW sales of 230K in February, which puts its installed base at 5mn or in-line to the original Xbox which was an unproven console and faced substantial competition from the PS2," Patel added.
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Full Story: teamxbox.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Nintendo: 360 isn't performing well in Europe
>> From gamesindustry.biz:
[QUOTE]
Speaking in an interview with the San Jose Mercury News, Fils-Aime (Nintendo of America boss) stated that the Wii is trouncing sales of its only next-gen rival in European territories.
"360 is selling well only in one country: UK," he said.
"Across the rest of Europe, it is not performing well. Wii on the other hand, is selling exceptionally well all through Europe."
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Full Story: gamesindustry.biz
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XboxMediaCenter (XBMC) 2007-03-18 SVN rev8233 build - T3CH
>> T3CH released a new SVN compile (rev8233) of XboxMediaCenter(info) for Xbox1.
This T3CH-compile is a complete snapshot of what is in SVN at the time the build was compiled, with just a few small additions.
Special Notes and Noteworthy/XML/Script changes:
* Added : Merged the pm3_concept branch with main svn trunk. Updates to PM3 skin include new login screen, new animations, faster default animations, new view types for videos music and scripts, New improved Video library view with full info for TV shows and Movies, Better Use of images for a cleaner smaller xpr file, Updated Layouts, pm3 is now a full screen skin and all TV over scan compensation has been removed so Calibrate your screen proper, Python Scripters will need to update the layout of their scripts to adjust for the new no over scan view if you use background.png from PM3 media your script will be out of alignment Sorry but its needed for the future
* The domain 'xil.us' no longer exists, use http://217.118.215.116/ until I find another domain.
* This build has been created with LTCG (linking optimizations). Consider it a test :)
* Jezz_X has worked hard on improving PM3 skin, his labour got added to SVN today and is thus included in this build.
* I'm including a package of "Picture Icons" for use with new TuxBox Client, see _tools/PictureIcon.rar.
* There's no new mplayer TEST version since my last build, but you can still report issues with old TEST here It's located in the TEST subfolder, simply replace the 2 files in XBMC/system/players/mplayer/ if you want to help Team XBMC test it.
* I've also tweaked the win32 run_me_first.bat so it runs and then unmounts the virtual drives when you exit.
* I'm also including the XBMC Win32 PC environment.exe that is meant for skinners & python developers, read more about the concept here. It was built using Microsoft DirectX Summer 2004 SDK.
For the full changelog (all added/fixed/changed/updated stuff) since the 2007-03-12 SVN Rev8103 build click here.
Keep in mind this is a SVN snapshot of the current development tree. It's not an official (stable) point release. Use only if you know what you are doing.
Official XBMC Site: www.xboxmediacenter.com (manual and FAQ)
Official T3CH Site: http://217.118.215.116 (release RSS feed)
Download Binaries: n/a (built with XDK) | Download SourceCode: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
IGN: The Top 25 Xbox1 Games of All Time
>> From xbox.ign.com:
[QUOTE]
Now that the next-generation of consoles have arrived, the once formidable big black box, the Xbox, has officially met its maker. Microsoft no longer manufactures the hardware, it stopped making first-party titles for Xbox in 2005, and nearly every single publisher, save one or two, have officially moved on. For IGN and all of our dedicated readers, that means one thing. We finally have created the best and most controversial Xbox list ever -- The Top 25 Xbox Games of All Time.
TOP10:
10) Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
09) ESPN NFL 2K5
08) Fable
07) Ninja Gaiden Black
06)Rainbow Six 3
05) Jade Empire
04) Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
03) Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Chaos Theory
02) Halo 2
01) Halo: Combat Evolved
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Full Story: xbox.ign.com (5 pages)
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