Thanks to a Target shipping error, a few gamers received an early Christmas present in the form of an Xbox One console.
At least three people are known have found Microsoft’s new console on their doorstep two weeks before the Nov. 22 launch date in what Target is calling a “systems error.”
Here’s a statement Microsoft gave us, noting that those consoles would be banned from Xbox Live until “closer to launch date.”
Due to a retail partner’s system issue, a very small number of Xbox One consoles were shipped to consumers before the November 22 street date. We’re pleased to see the initial response to Xbox One has been so positive, but given we are still putting the finishing touches on our games, UI and online services, as well as confidential partner and media agreements, these console units will be restricted from connecting to Xbox Live until closer to our launch date.
One gamer, who goes by Moonlightswami on Twitter, put up an unboxing video on YouTube and shared several interesting tidbits of information, like a 17-second boot-up time and a 500MB day-one patch update.
HOLY FUCKING SHIT LOOK WHAT I JUST GOT pic.twitter.com/JOr8lDnYKN
— #1 Source 4 XBOX ONE (@Moonlightswami) November 9, 2013
But soon after Moonlightswami posted the video, Microsoft took it down due to copyright claims and banned his console. Xbox’s Larry Hyrb — a.k.a. Major Nelson — then spoke with Moonlightswami to explain a temporary ban that will be lifted before Nov. 22.
Moonlightswami said the two made “an agreement,” that’s “kind of like an NDA,” and added that Microsoft “has been very gracious in their effort to remedy the situation.”
Alright, I talked to @majornelson and all is being resolved. He has invited me to the launch event. Details on it are classified.
— #Swamalytics (@Moonlightswami) November 9, 2013
The console ban also will be lifted prior to launch. I can't really say much more, but it is all good. Thank you all for the support!!!
— #Swamalytics (@Moonlightswami) November 9, 2013
Reasoning for not veing able to disclose more is some things have not been announced/not fully ready. All i can say.
— #Swamalytics (@Moonlightswami) November 9, 2013
Microsoft has been very gracious in their effort to remedy the situation since they recognize I was not at fault in this.
— #Swamalytics (@Moonlightswami) November 9, 2013
Another person put the device up on Ebay for $10,000, but the auction was pulled shortly thereafter.
Finally, Twitter user connorJcosgrove also received the console, and says Microsoft told him to do what he wants with the Xbox One.
https://twitter.com/connorJcosgrove/status/398947590718251008
For the record, I talked on the phone with Microsoft and they said it's mine to do with as I please
— Connor John Cosgrove (@connorJcosgrove) November 9, 2013
He’s just launched an auction for his console with a starting bid of $1,500 and a Buy It Now price of $3,000.