Microsoft Picks IBM Processors for Xbox 2
Microsoft's Xbox currently utilizes an Intel processor, suggesting that the future Xbox may break backward compatibility with the current crop of machines. (Unless, of course, Microsoft introduces some sort of emulation layer.)
Current Nintendo GameCubes utilize the IBM PowerPC processor, while the next-generation Sony Playstation is also rumored to use IBM-based technology (Cell). Apple currently uses IBM-based PowerPC 970 processors to power their PowerMac G5s.
Of potential interest, Microsoft recently acquired Virtual PC from Connectix which offers x86 emulation on the PowerPC.
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I thought that part of the big development boon for XBox was "it's just another PC" sort of design.
arn
Either way Xbox2 Vs PS3 is going to be a monster of a battle! Damn do I wish I was in games design and dev. $$$$$$$$ :eek: :p :p
Originally posted by arn
This is very interesting.
I thought that part of the big development boon for XBox was "it's just another PC" sort of design.
arn
I think that writing to DirectX API's is supposed to make developing for PCs and XBox easier. Allegedly much of it can be ported without modification.
It will be interesting if they go with a PPC CPU. MS has experience with Windows NT on PPC. It really would be interesting if they moved DirectX to PPC.
Originally posted by DreaminDirector
Would the xbox using IBM chips make it easier to port to the mac when games finally come out for the xbox2? Or vise versa?
No, not necessarily. It's more about the APIs than the processor.
That being said.... depending on the processor used (if it were a true PowerPC derivative), then emulation would be far more possible than before. But even so, I don't think there are any PC Xbox emulators presently... likely due to legal reasons.
arn
Originally posted by stoid
Another Windows copying Macs ideas I think. Apple goes to IBM and makes the G5, so Microsoft follows suit, goes to IBM and gets XBox 2.
::Chuckle:: Without IBM, Microsoft would not be 1/25th of the company it is today. IBM indirectly funded development of Windows for years through the "I can't believe they agreed to it" licensing of DOS.
I must be getting old. Seems like such a long time ago, long enough for people to forget anyway.
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