Xbox Live Labs Seeks Volunteers For Bandwidth Testing

Microsoft has announced an "optional testing program" for the Xbox 360 called Xbox Live Labs. The program is part of the company's steps towards improving Xbox Live. Running from now until March 27, U.S. Xbox gamers are able to take part in the testing, providing results that will ultimately improve the service. Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb revealed the initiative on his blog, stating that all those who choose to take part will receive rewards in the form of Avatar items and zero point achievements. Avatar items up for grabs are all science-related, including a lab coat, a brain helmet, and "crazy mad scientist hair." Hryb also notes that, while Xbox Live Labs is running on your Xbox, "you will not be able to participate in other Xbox Live activities, such as gaming, watching movies or downloading music." The program may also cause your internet connectivity to slow down for the duration. Hryb notes that the program is "entirely optional and voluntary," and Xbox users are not required to run it. Xbox Live Labs is only available in the U.S. at this point, with testing in other Xbox Live regions to come at a later date.