Wii | XBL update locks out 'unauthorized storage devices'

Larry "Major Nelson" Hyrb issues ominous warning that upcoming update will lock out third-party memory units, but Microsoft doesn't identify any manufacturers.

The upcoming Xbox Live fall update will add many features for gold subscribers, including an MSNBC news feed, high-definition Zune videos, and a music-focused marketplace, as well as Twitter, Facebook, and Last.fm integration.

Microsoft-made Memory Units will still work fine.

However, the update will also take something away from users of third-party memory devices for the Xbox 360. In a post over the weekend, Xbox Live director of programming Larry "Major Nelson" issued the following warning:

"When Preview Program members start receiving the Xbox 360 system update next week, one of the changes is that unauthorized Memory Units will no longer work with the Xbox 360. If you've moved your profile or saved games onto one to 'back it up,' you'd better move it back onto an authorized Xbox 360 storage device prior to taking the update. If you continue to use an unauthorized Memory Unit after the update, you will not be able to access your stored profile or saved games."

Though Hryb linked to an example of a Microsoft-made 512MB Memory Unit as an example of authorized hardware, he did not identify any third-party manufacturers whose products would be locked out by the update. Xbox.com lists only Microsoft-made items and those bearing green "Licensed for Xbox 360" or white-and-green "Created by Xbox" labels as being supported.

Datel ones will likely not post-update.

Microsoft reps did not respond to requests for clarification as to which third-party memory devices would be locked out by the update. However, several products from British electronic firm Datel are likely targets. The company makes a variety of Xbox 360 add-ons, including high-capacity Memory Units and a peripheral that allows players to move files back and forth from the console's hard drive to a PC.

Microsoft's move will further anger critics of its Xbox 360 memory unit and hard drive pricing. Currently a 120GB hard drive costs $150 and the $100 Xbox Live starter pack comes with a 60GB hard drive. By contrast, Nintendo's Wii supports high-capacity SD memory cards from any manufacturer and Sony's PlayStation 3 lets owners install internal third-party hard drives without voiding the console's warranty.

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Source: http://www.gamespot.com/news/6237091.html