Eurogamer has a story that indicates it may be possible to "customize" your Xbox 2-- or at least for Microsoft to custom-tailor the console different geographical regions:

"We have ways, we have ideas. Look at cell phones," Microsoft VP J Allard told trade publication MCV. "You can have snap-on faceplates, you can change the skin and the batteries, and you can change the ringtones. I think we need to have a global foundation, and then personalise within region."

The story also claims that Microsoft is promising to ship 1 million of the next-generation console before Christmas.

In other news:

• dementedpuppy dot com notes that Halomaps.co.uk will not be reopening. The announcement came in the Gearbox Forum.
• Major League Gaming has info about their upcoming Orlando event, as well as an interview with Foulacy of Str8 Rippin.