Microsoft Corp. on Monday confirmed earlier reported date for the unveiling of the next version of the popular Xbox console. The debut of the anticipated gaming machine is scheduled for the 12^th of May, 2005 on a special show at MTV channel, which will be broadcasted worldwide.

“The highly anticipated console will be revealed to video game fanatics, music lovers and MTV viewers via a high-energy half-hour program titled ‘MTV Presents: The Next Generation Xbox Revealed’,” Microsoft said in a statement.

Viewers will get the first look at the Xbox vision for the next generation – one that ensures that the user experience is always connected, always personalized and always in high definition. The special will feature never-before-seen gameplay of future Xbox games, a peek into the future of the Xbox Live online gaming service, backstage celebrity interviews and exclusive insider footage on the making of the next-generation console.

The inside look at the next-generation Xbox will continue at MTV.com, where after the special, viewers will find extended event coverage including behind-the-scenes video, photos and other special extras. MTV.com will also provide ongoing in-depth coverage of the next-generation Xbox highlighting the latest news, product details and previews of hot next-generation games, Microsoft indicated.

Microsoft Xbox 2 console is based around microprocessor developed by IBM, high-definition visual processing unit designed by ATI Technologies, I/O controller engineered by SiS and some other key components. The gaming machine will feature wireless network connectivity and will provide a broad set of multimedia capabilities.

The special will be hosted by actor Elijah Wood, known for his appearance as Frodo Baggins in “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. In addition, a rock band called The Killers will deliver performances throughout the special. The global broadcast will premiere Thursday, May 12, at 9:30 PM EDT in North America and on Friday, May 13 in other regions around the globe.

“MTV Presents: The Next Generation Xbox Revealed” will be broadcast around the world. Local market times are as follows:

North America:

• Thursday, May 12, at 9:30 p.m. (21:30);

Japan/Asia:

• Friday, May 13, at 11:30;

Europe:

• France: Friday, May 13, at 19:00;
• Germany: Friday, May 13, at 19:00;
• Italy: Friday, May 13, at 23:30;
• Netherlands: Friday, May 13, at 19:30;
• Poland: Friday, May 13, at 21:00;
• Portugal: Friday, May 13, at 20:00;
• Romania: Friday, May 13, at 20:00;
• Scandinavia: Friday, May 13, at 22:00;
• Spain: Friday, May 13, at 21:30;
• U.K.: Friday, May 13, at 20:00;

Australia:

• Friday, May 13, at 19:00.