Microsoft addresses Xbox 360 kiosk malfunction

Joystiq report that Microsoft have spoke out about reports of Xbox 360 kiosks being shut down because of the interference with the stores’ PA systems.

Here is a copy of the press release:

Our Xbox 360 retail kiosk program rolled out this week and we encountered some minor wireless interference issues at a small number of retail outlets that are specific to some retail environments. Since the advent of 2.4 ghz signals, such as those found in next generation consumer electronics like cordless phones, wireless routers and now, Xbox 360, some retailers have discovered that their network-based inventory management systems can be impacted by products using modern wireless signals. While retailers are constantly updating their internal management systems, sometimes new products being introduced into the market can cause this kind of temporary interference. We are working closely with retailers to provide a software solution that mitigates this problem within their retail environments. Adjustments and tweaks to kiosks of any kind are quite common once they’re deployed in a “live” retail environment. We consider making such adjustments a standard part of the launch process.

A solution to this issue was developed within 24 hours of identifying the issue and we are currently deploying the fix to the affected locations.

Q: I heard Xbox 360 is interfering with retailer’s inventory system; what’s going on?

A: Our Xbox 360 retail kiosk program rolled out this week and we encountered some minor wireless interference issues that are specific to some retail environments. Since the advent of 2.4 ghz signals, such as those found in next generation consumer electronics like cordless phones, wireless routers and now, Xbox 360, some retailers have discovered that their network-based inventory management systems can be impacted by products using modern wireless signals. While retailers are constantly updating their internal management systems, sometimes new products being introduced into the market can cause this kind of temporary interference. We are working closely with our partners to provide a software solution that mitigates this problem within their retail environments. Adjustments and tweaks to kiosks of any kind are quite common once they’re deployed in a live retail environment and we consider making such adjustments a standard part of the launch process.

Q: How can I be assured that Xbox 360 isn’t going to interfere with other wireless devices in my home?

This issue is specific to the equipment used in a few retail environments. Xbox 360, like portable phones, wireless network routers, and Bluetooth devices emit radio frequency operate in the 2.4GHz band. Microsoft has one of the most robust testing programs in the industry and has ensured that Xbox 360 meets all FCC/ETSI requirements and rules for operation in the 2.4GHz band. It is possible that devices that do not comply with FCC/ETSI rules of operation in this band may not properly handle interference from other 2.4GHz sources. Such devices would be extremely rare in a home environment.

Q: Has this caused damage to your retail relationships?

A: We have strong relationships with our retail partners and we work collaboratively with them all the time. We can assure you stores are experiencing “business as usual” and we are deploying a solution for consumers to experience Xbox 360 in the retail environment.

News Source: Joystiq.com

Q: Has this caused damage to your retail relationships?

A: We have strong relationships with our retail partners and we work collaboratively with them all the time. We can assure you stores are experiencing “business as usual” and we are deploying a solution for consumers to experience Xbox 360 in the retail environment.


Haha , that is such an MS answer, they could just say " YES "

This really isn't MS fault. Of course it's going to work on a 2.4 frequency. that's why you get a higher frequency phone or just use common sense. I'm not standing up for Gates but this is just honestly the retailers fault. I had this problem with my wifi in the early days until I grew some common sense and found out this crap wasn't plug n play.

The xbox is going to cause the same ammount of interference now matter, what you can't fix this bug cause it's not a bug. They are just going to send out a letter upping the stupid retailer's 133tness skillz +1. Which is honestly all they can do.

Or they could just send the retailers wired controllers..... considering yer attached to the kiosk anyhow sorta counter productive to send the wireless controllers and then tether them to the kiosk in such a way.....

well This is very much true. I stand corrected, good call.