Xbox One doesn't come with a headset because it includes Kinect, Microsoft explains

UPDATE: Microsoft has announced that you will be able to keep using your Xbox 360 headset with Xbox One after all - although you'll need an adaptor to do so.

The new information emerged last night via the official Xbox Support Twitter account (thanks, VG247).

“We are working to develop an adapter for current wired headsets to connect. More details as we approach launch,” a Microsoft spokesperson said.

Microsoft has yet to say whether the adaptor will be included with the Xbox One console pack or available for sale separately. We're querying this with Microsoft now.

The Wireless Controller has been redesigned to allow for higher data transfer speed between the controller and the console," Microsoft told Eurogamer. "This also required creating a new expansion port design for headsets and future controller add-on devices which is different from a standard audio plug input.

"Xbox plans to develop solutions in the near future to allow consumers to connect many brands of wired gaming headsets to the Wireless Controller for gaming and chat audio."

ORIGINAL STORY: The Xbox One doesn't come with a headset because it includes Kinect, Microsoft has explained.

While the cheaper 4GB Xbox 360 models do not come with a headset, the high-end Xbox 360 models do, which led some to wonder whether Microsoft would pack one in with each £429 Xbox One.

Microsoft isn't, the company confirmed. And, it explained to Ars Technica, that's because each Xbox One console comes with the new Kinect, which itself includes a microphone.

"Xbox One does not include a pack-in headset accessory," Microsoft said. "Each Xbox One includes the new Kinect sensor, with a highly sensitive multi-array microphones designed to enable voice inputs and chat as a system-level capability, both in-game and with Skype and other experiences. For gamers who prefer a headset, we have a variety of offerings that you can find on the Xbox Wire."

Of course, without a headset you'll run other players' voices through your standard speakers. The PlayStation 4 includes a basic mono earbud and microphone with each system, but it does not include the PlayStation Camera.

As Eurogamer reader snoox points out, the Xbox One uses a proprietary jack while the PS4 has a standard microphone jack.

The Xbox One headset, sold separately, is called the Xbox One Chat Headset. Microsoft is yet to announce a price for it.

Its official description: "A must-have for fans of online gaming, the new Xbox One Chat Headset, wired to the controller, is designed for long gaming sessions and clear voice chat. With a lightweight and comfortable new design, the mono chat headset features wideband digital audio and a unidirectional microphone. Gamers will love not having to take their hands off the controller to access the microphone mute and volume controls."

If you don't fancy that, there are some third-party options, courtesy of Turtle Beach.