Microsoft pledges to replace batch of noisy Xbox One consoles
Microsoft has said it will replace any Xbox One console affected by a recently-discovered noise issue after a spate of complaints surfaced online.
A number of new owners have reported a loud whirring noise when the Xbox One is sat on the console's desktop without a game running.
"We have heard that a small number of Xbox One owners in some situations may hear a noise from the console that is too loud," a Microsoft spokesperson confirmed to Eurogamer.
"While this does not affect the safety or functionality of the system, we're asking customers who believe they are experiencing this issue to contact Xbox Support: http://support.xbox.com. At the request of our customers, we are exchanging those consoles for new systems."
Around 800 people have responded to a thread on Microsoft's offical forum with reports of the problem.
The consensus is that the noise is a coil whine which occurs when a lower level of power is being drawn from the console.
Users report that plugging in a Kinect sensor alleviates the noise (since the console is then drawing extra power for the device).
It also explains the recent number of people reporting the issue in recent weeks - the fact that some Xbox One consoles have this problem is being highlighted as a result of Kinect-less consoles going on sale.
One user has recorded an example of the noise below. You can hear a faint buzzing sound on the Xbox One desktop when the user closes the game in progress.
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