E3: Xbox 360 Slim Priced At $299, Shipping Today

Microsoft debuted the Xbox 360 Slim, an updated and redesigned version of its console, which begins shipping to stores in North America today with a $299 price tag. The company's Interactive Entertainment SVP Don Mattrick unveiled the new hardware to the public today at Microsoft's E3 press event, promising that the black system has been "completely redesigned for the future of entertainment". The Xbox 360 Slim features a 250 GB hard drive, built-in wifi (802.11N), and, like all other Xbox 360 models, support for Microsoft's upcoming motion-sensing, controller-free device Kinect. To emphasize the updated console's features and Kinect support, Microsoft revealed a short trailer with the slogan "here today, ready for tomorrow". Mattrick went on to describe the Xbox 360 Slim as "sleeker, smaller, [and] whisper-quiet." Despite the system's new features, Microsoft has decided to keep the Xbox 360 Slim's price at $299, which is also the price of the Xbox 360 Elite. Mattrick said the Xbox 360 Slim begins shipping in North America today, and should arrive at stores this week.