Next Xbox prototypes reportedly include game streaming service, 3D glasses

Prototypes for Microsoft's next Xbox, which is due to be revealed tonight, reportedly include a game streaming service, 3D glasses, advanced cable or satellite functionality and digital-video recording technology.

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That's according to various comments said to have been provided to the Wall Street Journal by over a dozen current and former Microsoft employees and partners, although it remains unclear how many of the technologies mentioned will make it into the final product.

Microsoft's proposed game streaming service could be used to offer access to Xbox 360's software back catalogue on the new console, according to the report.

The new console could also be compatible with specially designed 3D glasses, the WSJ adds. These may support augmented reality features that blend images of the real world with those of a game.

Additionally, the report claims that the Xbox 360 successor may enable users to plug their cable or satellite signal into the console directly, while Microsoft is said to have developed a companion digital-video recording technology.

Microsoft will bring to an end months of speculation tonight by revealing its new Xbox at a press conference at its Redmond, Washington headquarters. A live stream of the event will be viewable on CVG's ongoing Xbox Event Live Blog.

We analysed the most credible speculation about Microsoft's upcoming console in this countdown to the Next Xbox feature.