This past week, Paul Reines, CEO Gamespot, predicted that only one of the two major gaming consoles (PlayStation 4 and Xbox 720) will be released next year whereas the other will a year after in 2014. However, there is no visible consensus over which console will arrive before the other next year. Many analysts believe that Microsoft will want to jump in first because of the Xbox 360’s outdated technology and its inability to match PS3’s horsepower. Well according to recent rumours, their plan may have hit a roadblock with Xbox 720 plagued by processor troubles.

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AMD Chips To Be Used Instead of IBM Chips in Xbox 720

A report published by SemiAccurte suggests that Microsoft will be using AMD chips to run the next generation Xbox instead of the IBM chips used in Xbox 360 and the production of the processors was expected to begin this December. Microsoft were planning to announce a release date of September 2013 for Xbox 720 but now they may have to push it back if the production rate is not increased. The processor, codenamed Oban, is taking much longer to manufacture in comparison to the two months allocated for its production. Microsoft could be forced to increase the supply of hardware components significantly if they are to meet the September 2013 release. The processor delay is reportedly being attributed to the low speed and the quality of the chip which has forced Microsoft to rethink its strategy. AMD may be renowned for their graphics controllers but they are certainly not the trendsetters when it comes to CPUs. The reason behind ensuring that console comes out in September next year could be meeting the holiday season to have a higher rate of sales immediately after release.

Microsoft Will make Sure High Quality of Xbox 720

The gossip about the features and possible delays is likely to increase as we approach the speculated release dates and should not be paid much attention to. Xbox 360 is the leading gaming console, in terms of sales, in the world for a reason and Microsoft will not allow for any lack of quality and effort on its part. Nevertheless, if Microsoft are forced to delay the release, it may create a window of opportunity for Sony and tempt them to sneak in the PlayStation 4 before the Xbox 720 to take advantage of the market climate.