Microsoft's next Xbox console will be a staggering six times more powerful than its predecessor, according to reports.
Sources close to IGN told the site that the new console's GPU will be similar to AMD's 6000 series, more specifically the Radeon HD 6670. It is also mentioned that it will support DirectX11, multi-display output, 3D and 1080p HD output.
The new system will have at least six times more raw graphic processing power than the current Xbox, which will give the 720/Next (or whatever Microsoft eventually decide to call it) plenty of room to grow into over the coming years. According to the report, it is also likely to deliver 20-percent greater performance than Nintendo's soon to be released Wii-U.
Whilst claims of the new system's power should be taken with a pinch of salt at this early stage, it is encouraging to hear that Microsoft is well on its way to putting the pieces together for its next console.
Recent reports on tech websites Fudzilla and Semi Accurate suggest that production of the new chip (codenamed Oban) is already up and running, with the first batch going straight to developers this year as they prepare their respective launch titles.
With many developers still waiting to receive their development consoles, a 2012 release date is looking increasingly unlikely. It is now expected that the next Xbox will be released in the run-up to Christmas 2013.