Infineon to provide key components for Xbox 360

German company Infineon Technologies AG has announced that it will provide three key components for the Xbox 360, including a removable solid-state memory unit.

Infineon will also produce a single integrated chip to power a wireless controller for the console, and an advanced security chip based on the company's proprietary authentication technology. The chips were developed in Germany, Israel and Italy and will be manufactured in France.

âToday, customers require a system view to technology development in order to achieve increased performance, lower cost and a higher level of integration. Infineon is taking this system design approach to bring more value to its key customers,â commented Infineon's Peter Bauer.

Xbox Peripherals director Mark Whitten added: âCollaboration with leading suppliers of semiconductors and electronic components is essential to the realisation of Microsoftâs vision to deliver entirely new capabilities in consumer entertainment."

âInfineonâs broad and complementary IP portfolio, system integration skill, manufacturing expertise and proven track record were crucial factors in our decision to work with the company on these components.â

The Xbox 360 is due to launch towards the end of 2005. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.