Report: Microsoft recruiting for next-gen Xbox console

Microsoft jobs advertised on LinkedIn suggest the company is preparing for the next generation Xbox. Dismay, tears, and scenes of rioting are expected.

The Beyond 3D forumites turned up several positions on Microsoft's website which suggest new hardware in the works.

The first job calls for a graphics hardware architect for the team "responsible for defining and delivering next-generation console architectures from conception through implementation".

"The responsibilities include architecture analysis, key technology selection, architecture specification, communication and collaboration with extended Microsoft teams and partner companies," the description continues.

A senior architect and performance engineer is also sought, for the Xbox Console Architecture group.

According to the ad, this group "is involved in product definition from early evaluation all the way through high volume manufacturing".

"The main focus of this position is on performance evaluation and modelling. However, involvement in all aspects of product development regularly occurs. We are looking for someone who is flexible, and wants to be involved with various stages of the product life cycle. During different stages of the product life cycle responsibilities will vary."

Finally, Microsoft is after a senior hardware design verifcation engineer, "responsible for the design verification and qualification of the Xbox console at the component, motherboard, and system levels", to "lead test strategy discussions, develop test methodologies and plans and project-manage qualification cycles."

Thanks, Eurogamer.