The Xbox 360 is the second video game console produced by Microsoft, and was developed in cooperation with IBM, ATI, and SiS. Its Xbox Live service allows players to compete online and download content such as arcade games, game demos, trailers, TV shows, and movies. The Xbox 360 is the successor to the Xbox, and competes with Sony's PlayStation 3 and Nintendo's Wii as part of the seventh generation of video game consoles.
The Xbox 360 was officially unveiled on MTV on May 12, 2005, with detailed launch and game information divulged later that month at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3). It is the first console to provide a near-simultaneous launch across the three major regions. The console sold out completely at release (with the exception of Japan) and, as of January 3, 2008, 17.7 million units have been sold to retailers worldwide. The Xbox 360 is currently available in three different versions, the "Arcade" console, the "Premium" console, and the "Elite" console, each having its own set of included accessories and features.
