Microsoft set to launch Xbox Lite in 2013

Microsoft plans to cash in further on its current-gen console tech through the launch of the Xbox Lite, a smaller, inexpensive version of the 360, it has been claimed.

Renowned Microsoft speculator, MS Nerd, provided details about the Xbox Lite last week and has been quick to reply in depth to questions posted on the Reddit.com forum.

Downsizing again?

The new ARM-based 360 model will apparently launch in late 2013 for roughly £100, with a true successor to the Xbox 360 set to follow shortly after.

The same source reckons there will be a major Kinect refresh in 2015 as well.

A mini Xbox rumour was one the leak-extraordinaire talked up last year, claiming the Xbox Loop - as it was then known - would be cheaper than the 360 and further enable Kinect adoption.

"It will also demonstrate how Windows Phone could possibly implement Win9's dev platform on the lower end," moles said.

One thing we do know for sure is that Microsoft will not discuss its next-gen Xbox consoles at E3 this year. ®