New 360 Wireless Network Adapter Confirmed, Holiday Bundle Rumored

An over-priced replacement to the currently over-priced Xbox 360 wireless network adapter is coming.

The Xbox 360 wireless network adapter could be considered a sore-spot in the system's accessory offerings, widely believed to be priced too high at $99.99 in North America. However, Microsoft has confirmed a replacement to this adapter that will have two mini-antennae instead of one, and will use 802.11n instead of 802.11g. What does that mean? It will be better. Specifially, it should provide better reception and increase the ability to stream 1080p content.

Rumors began swirling around the new gadget when it was revealed through FCC filings and when it appeared on a promotional advertisement that was packaged inside the Italian version of Gears of War 2: GOTY Edition. Microsoft responded to TeamXbox's inquiries about the rumored new wireless adapter with this statement:

We can confirm that Xbox 360 will offer a Wireless N Networking Adapter that will enable Xbox 360 owners to seamlessly connect with their home network with the highest wireless 'N' technology. The Wireless N Networking Adapter will provide another choice to consumers and creates an easy way for Xbox 360 owners to fully enjoy the added benefits of Xbox LIVE. We look forward to sharing more details on this product soon. Stay tuned.

The best part is that, according to a source speaking to Ars Technica, the new 802.11n wireless adapter will replace the existing adapter at $99.99. The old adapter will drop to $79.99 if the source is to be believed. While this means that the old wireless adapter could almost drop to a reasonable price, purchasing it will make you feel like you're buying the "Lame-O Edition(TM)" if you don't get the 802.11n for another $20.

Ars Technica's source also believes a new Xbox 360 Elite holiday bundle, that will start being sold in the middle of October, will include Pure and Lego Batman. If true, the games will likely simply be included in all 360 Elites, similar to the way the holiday bundle worked last year that included Kung Fu Panda and Lego Indiana Jones.

Source: Ars Technica