Microsoft told us to expect an announcement much bigger than the renaming of Project Natal to Microsoft Kinect, and while the Xbox 360 Slim is by no means an earth-shattering unveiling, there is more than enough for owners of the more portly version of the console to get excited about.

--------------------------------------------------------

Update! The new Xbox 360 Slim lands:

 - Xbox 360 Slim ultimate guide

- Xbox 360 slim review

- Xbox 360 Kinect review

- Xbox 360 slim UK prices: Dramatic drop

---------------------------------------------------------

T3 caught up with CVG's Mike Jackson one of the first people to get some hands-on time with the new Xbox 360 Slim, who reveals why you may need to upgrade.

On New Xbox 360 Slim design

"It's a pretty console - very pretty. A subtly futuristic aggressive appearance without being cheesy like an AlienWare PC. Our only complain would be the fingerprints - the glossy finish, like the Black Wii and first PS3, will be covered in your gamer grease within minutes."

On a quieter Xbox 360 Slim

"With no disc in the tray this console is absolutely silent - the single larger fan that replaces the multiple fans of the old noisy console clearly doing the trick in the decibel-trimming department."

Verdict on Xbox 360 Slim

"Speaking to Microsoft reps at the unboxing event, we were told repeatedly that the firm believes this is the best console it's ever made. We make them right. This is the solid, polished machine it should have been to begin with. If PS3 had one undeniable advantage over 360 in the past it was in the hardware stakes, but MS has truly stepped up its game."

Read the full hands-on Xbox 360 Slim review on CVG here

T3 will bring you a Xbox 360 Slim review as soon as its slender body makes it over to the UK.