Report: Microsoft Beefs Security in Preparation for Xbox 720 Development

[Zips]

GeekWire reports that four key Microsoft Studios will be given a tremendous boost to security measures in the coming weeks and months, perhaps a sign that next-gen console development is about to kick into full speed.

The company notified employees this week that it will be implementing new physical security measures — limiting employee access at four key Xbox and Interactive Entertainment Business buildings to ensure confidentiality of upcoming products.

It’s the first time Microsoft has taken this step on such a broad scale. The move represents a cultural shift, giving Microsoft’s key consumer products a level of security more along the lines of those implemented by Apple.

The changes will affect Microsoft Studios A, B, C, and D, on the west side of state Route 520, starting early next month with Studio A and rolling out to the other buildings by the end of the month.

Under the new policy, only employees and vendors in Microsoft’s Interactive Entertainment Business or assigned to the buildings will have open access. Other employees and vendors who need to enter the buildings for business reasons will need to go through an online registration process or register at the buildings as visitors, escorted by another employee with access to the buildings.

Then again, maybe they're all just having a big Dance Central 2 tournament and didn't want to embarrass themselves in front of their other colleagues.

[CptainCrunch]

Unless they plan to remove ALL cell phones and internet access at the building, it wont matter.

[Zips]

Unless they plan to remove ALL cell phones and internet access at the building, it wont matter.

Yeah, but at least then they have a more narrow field of whom they can suspect for the leaks. If only X, Y, and Z are permitted in and information leaks, then only X, Y, and Z are suspects.