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Next Xbox shipments to ramp up in third quarter

Microsoft has made plans for a big boost in its supplier shipments of the next-generation Xbox in the third quarter in anticipation of a fourth-quarter launch, according to one report.

Don Reisinger
CNET contributor Don Reisinger is a technology columnist who has covered everything from HDTVs to computers to Flowbee Haircut Systems. Besides his work with CNET, Don's work has been featured in a variety of other publications including PC World and a host of Ziff-Davis publications.
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Microsoft built a giant tent on its Redmond, Wash., campus in which it will reveal details of the next Xbox video game console on Tuesday.
Microsoft built a giant tent on its Redmond, Wash., campus in which it will reveal details of the next Xbox video game console on Tuesday. Microsoft

Microsoft's next Xbox is already in production, and will start shipping in large numbers in the third quarter, according to a recent report.

The sometimes spotty DigiTimes on Monday reported that Microsoft has already started producing the next version of its Xbox in "small volumes," but has already placed orders for "mass shipments" of the device to kick off in the third quarter, and reach their peak in the fourth quarter. DigiTimes is basing its claims on conversations it had with members of Microsoft's supply chain.

Microsoft is holding a big Xbox event today at which it's expected to unveil the next version of its console. It's widely believed that the console will ship in the fourth quarter, lending some credence to the DigiTimes claim.

Catch CNET's live blog from Microsoft's Xbox event, starting Tuesday at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET