Microsoft will release a $99 version of its 4GB Xbox 360 video-game console complete with a forced $15 monthly subscription fee as soon as next week, reports The Verge and Xbox Kinect Fans. The Verge’s sources claim the monthly charges will grant buyers access to an Xbox Live Gold membership for a couple years and could potentially net them “some additional streaming content from cable providers or sports package providers.” Consoles sold as part of the bundle will also be covered under an included warranty.

Those who wish to break free of the subscription prior to the expiration of the 2-year agreement will face penalty fees, not unlike mobile phone users who desire to prematurely free themselves of service contracts.

Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft has worked tirelessly since the launch of the Xbox 360 in November of 2005 to make the platform the main hub for all of its users’ home entertainment needs; this latest rumor is being viewed as the next stage of the company’s long campaign to occupy consumers’ living rooms. In March, it was revealed that 360 owners had finally transitioned to using the machine more for “other types of entertainment” than online gaming.

The new SKU will supposedly be Microsoft’s way of fighting off competition from Apple TV, PlayStation 3 and Roku. Its budget pricing and Kinect sensor could also make the package a potential threat to Nintendo’s forthcoming Wii U console, which will hit the market at some point during holiday 2012.

Source: The Verge