14 DAY TRIAL // A number of parts suppliers who are linked to the next-generation home console from Microsoft are already shipping components for the device, which means that the manufacturing process is being prepared and could be working by summer.
GamesIndustry.biz says that companies like Lite-On are ready to deliver the optical drives, while Asia Optical and Newmax are providing the lenses required by the new Kinect technology.
The manufacturing process for the Xbox 720 will take place at the Foxconn factories in China, which have also been working for the likes of Apple.
The companies are expecting demand for the parts to spike during the third quarter of the year.
Microsoft will hold an official event to reveal the new Xbox tonight and launch is expected to take place before Christmas.