The SDK (Software Development Kit) for Microsoft's next-generation Xbox console has recently been leaked onto a website called VGLeaks, revealing many of the system's hardware specifications and features. One of the major features listed within the XDK's "Durango Hardware Overview" section is the confirmation that the console will be always online and always connected.

"Durango will implement different power states so that it can always be powered on, but will draw minimal electricity when not in use," the overview begins.

"The console will be ready instantly when users want to play, and will always maintain a network connection so that console software and games are always current. "

With this "Always On, Always Connected" design, users will quickly and easily enjoy their connected entertainment experiences, with no waiting for the console to restart or install games.
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"Durango consoles will have a Blu-ray disc drive. Disc media will be used for distribution, but during gameplay, games will not use content from the optical disc.

An installation system is being designed that will allow gamers to begin playing while the game is being installed on the hard drive rather than waiting until installation is complete."