An image of what purports to be a redesigned, slim version of the Xbox 360 has been posted on the web. The image, as you can see above, shows a much smaller motherboard and only a single heatsink and fan design.

Microsoft has apparently managed to combine the CPU and GPU onto a single chip which is also smaller than the original separate processors. That would mean it is significantly cheaper to make, requires less power to run, and produces less heat. The heat aspect has always been a problem for Microsoft, but needed to be dealt with properly if a slim version of the 360 was ever going to appear.

The legitimacy of the image is in question, and the use of a CoolerMaster fan does little to aid believing this is the real deal. The originating website is Chinese-language site A9VG, but there is nothing to back up the claims that this is a real 360 motherboard.

Read more at Kotaku

Matthew’s Opinion

When Sony re-released the PS3 in its Slim form sales went through the roof, and Sony is still struggling to keep up with demand. Regardless of what Microsoft says about its lead in the console marketplace, it could really do with something to give sales a boost this year.

Releasing a 360 Slim would be a nice solution, and would surely entice more people to buy Microsoft’s console. If Microsoft could fix the heat issue once and for all it also may build a bit of confidence among gamers before the release of its next console.

If an Xbox 360 Slim did appear, would you buy one? Or does the risk of the 360 hardware overheating in a smaller package seem too risky?