If you have experienced the crackly voice problems while playing on your Xbox 360, while using voice communications, you will be pleased to know that Microsoft has been hard at work to solve these issues and will be releasing a long-awaited update to upgrade the Xbox codec used for voice communications.
Background on Xbox Audio Codec
The original Xbox audio codecs were created nearly eight years ago when 64k Internet connections were deemed fast. At that time, the technology was sufficient to support the gaming community’s needs. However, as technology has advanced, so have the expectations and requirements of gamers. Now, with the ever-increasing broadband speeds available to gamers, the low bit-rate codec suitable for 64k connections can be dropped. This outdated codec has been a bottleneck, causing the crackly voice issues that many users have experienced.
Details of the New Audio Update
The new Xbox 360 audio update will be arriving sometime this Autumn/Fall and coincides with the Kinect’s November launch. This update is not just a minor tweak but a significant overhaul aimed at enhancing the overall gaming experience. The new codec will take full advantage of modern broadband speeds, providing clearer and more reliable voice communications. This improvement is expected to make a substantial difference, especially in multiplayer games where clear communication is crucial.
For example, in team-based games like “Call of Duty” or “Fortnite,” clear voice communication can be the difference between victory and defeat. The new codec will ensure that commands and strategies are heard without the annoying crackles and interruptions that have plagued the current system. This update will also benefit social interactions on Xbox Live, making it easier to chat with friends and meet new people without technical distractions.
Moreover, this update is timely as it aligns with the launch of Kinect, Microsoft’s motion-sensing input device. Kinect aims to revolutionize how players interact with their games, and having a robust audio communication system will complement this new way of gaming. Imagine playing a game where you can use voice commands to control your character while also communicating clearly with your teammates. The synergy between Kinect and the new audio codec will offer a more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.
Additionally, this update reflects Microsoft’s commitment to continually improving the Xbox platform. By addressing long-standing issues and leveraging new technologies, Microsoft is ensuring that the Xbox 360 remains competitive in the ever-evolving gaming market. This move also sets a precedent for future updates, indicating that Microsoft is listening to its user base and willing to invest in meaningful improvements.
Via Slashgear
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