Microsoft unveils Xbox 360 HD DVD Emulator, hopes to speed up development

[wraggster]

We can't say we saw this one coming down the pike, but Microsoft has unveiled a new piece of software designed to "streamline development / testing for HD DVD content" as well as "accelerate the advancement" of next-generation interactivity (HDi, in particular). Simply put, the Xbox 360 HD DVD Emulator allows studios the flexibility to "model the behavior of HD DVD disc content, including encoded video and HDi interactivity, in a virtual environment." When put to use, companies can purportedly cut down on coasters and wasted time, but in order to do so, they'll need an Xbox 360 + HD DVD peripheral, a connection to Xbox Live and $2,999. Thirsty for more? There's plenty where that came from.

http://www.engadget.com/2007/12/13/m...o-speed-up-de/

[Elven6]

Why do they need the drive? Either way, greenpeace can't complain, and starter companies that don't have a big buget to buy testing equipment can use this. It can also be used for the homebrew enthusist who wants to make his own HD DVD's, but dosen't want to burn them.

I also heard it might have some debug features, so it will offer studios a bit more for their money.