We're looking for new writers to join us!

SanDisk shipping first Xbox 360 licensed flash drives

by: Dan -
More On: Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive
I think there was a little cheer from most people when Microsoft announced they were opening the Xbox 360 up to support flash drive memory support.  Unfortunately, there are still restrictions (such as size of the drives) that will be supported.  Yesterday, SanDisk announced that they are shipping Xbox 360 USB Flash Drives to retailers with a suggested MSRP of $34.99 (8GB) and $69.99 (16GB) that should be available immediately.

Unfortunately, SanDisk is charging a small premium over their comparable sized drives they sell at Best Buy (not to mention other cheaper options out there) by $5 and $20 respectively.  The only benefit (while Im not sure ifs worth the premium price) is that the drives are pre-configured to allow for seamless integration with the 360.  It is good for optimum plug-and-play, but this usually means a bunch of worthless crap is already on the drive taking up space.

SanDisk Ships Licensed Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive
Pre-configured USB Drive Delivers Best Experience On Xbox 360 Console

MILPITAS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK), the global leader in flash memory cards, today announced that it is shipping the Xbox 360® USB Flash Drive by SanDisk for the Microsoft Xbox 360 gaming and entertainment console. The new drive makes it easier than ever for gamers to take their gamertags, saved game progress, map packs, Arcade game downloads and bonus content with them for fast and convenient access on another Xbox 360 console†.

“Xbox LIVE contains a world of content for gamers to explore and download, including full-length games, movies and music”
The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk delivers the best experience on the Xbox 360 console. Pre-configured for seamless plug and play action, the drive eliminates the need to format storage or download an initial software update for an Xbox 360 console. For gamers looking to get in on the fun or for those with existing accounts who want to extend their play, a one-month Xbox LIVE Gold membership is included with purchase of the drive††.

“Xbox LIVE contains a world of content for gamers to explore and download, including full-length games, movies and music,” said Shuki Nir, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Retail, SanDisk. “The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk is specifically engineered to deliver a great user experience and maximum compatibility with the console, offering gamers greater freedom and flexibility in how they store, manage and enjoy their favorite files.”

“SanDisk has a proven track record of creating high-quality storage solutions,” said Ilan Spillinger, Vice President, Xbox Hardware and Technology, Microsoft. “The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk provides a great solution for gamers who need portable storage for their Xbox 360 content. It’s plug and play simple.”

Pricing and Availability
The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk is available now on SanDisk.com and at major retailers. The drive is available in 8 gigabyte (GB)1 and 16GB capacities, carrying suggested retail prices of $34.99 and $69.99, respectively.