Microsoft reveals new consoles: Xbox One S and Xbox One Project Scorpio

Microsoft has announced two new versions of its Xbox One console in an ambitious plan to ensure the lifespan of its latest machine. A new, more compact version called Xbox One S is launching in August, while Christmas 2017 will see the arrival of Xbox One Project Scorpio, a significantly more powerful update, that will support high definition virtual reality as well as games designed to exploit new 4K Ultra HD technology. Related: E3 2016: what's it really like to go to the world's biggest games event? During the company's press conference ahead of the E3 games event in Los Angeles – the industry's largest event, which begins tomorrow – Xbox chief Phil Spencer declared that the new consoles are designed to ensure the lifespan of the machine beyond a single hardware generation. He also announced closer compatibility between Xbox One and Windows titles, allowing cross-platform multiplayer gaming in titles like Gears of War 4 and Minecraft.