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New Xbox 360 won't red-ring even if it wants to

Even if your new slim Xbox 360 malfunctions, you won't be getting the now-infamous "red ring of death" error. That's because Microsoft has actually eliminated all of the red LEDs from the system's internal make-up.

Jeff Bakalar Editor at Large
Jeff is CNET Editor at Large and a host for CNET video. He's regularly featured on CBS and CBSN. He founded the site's longest-running podcast, The 404 Show, which ran for 10 years. He's currently featured on Giant Bomb's Giant Beastcast podcast and has an unhealthy obsession with ice hockey and pinball.
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Jeff Bakalar

Don't worry, Microsoft says this can't happen. Microsoft, Jeff Bakalar/CNET

Even if your new slim Xbox 360 console malfunctions, you won't be getting the now-infamous "red ring of death" error. That's because Microsoft has actually eliminated all of the red LEDs from the system's internal make-up. Instead, any sort of problem with the console will now be displayed using various combinations of green lights, GameSpot reports.

While we're relieved to witness the end of those dreadful red flashing lights, we're still skeptical about the new 360's reliability. Microsoft made a point to mention the new system's "whisper quiet" operation, but failed to directly mention any sort of improved quality control on this latest model.

Of course, we're sure the company has taken measures to avoid the unacceptable failure rate the Xbox 360 has suffered, but a little humility would have been reassuring. The overwhelming number of failing Xbox 360s has been well documented since its launch in November of 2005, with yours truly having just shipped his fifth (yes, fifth) Xbox 360 back to good old Mesquite, Texas, for repair.