Microsoft steps up to the plate (if only Sony did this for PS2s...)

Well, I'm proud of Microsoft. This is above and beyond my expectations for handling RRoD.

Let's backtrack to how Sony handled their last gen hardware fiasco. They were charging PS2 owners $40 to fix DRE (disc read error) problems even if the console was still in warranty. One class-action lawsuit later, Sony ended up reimbursing customers and waiving the $40 fee (in warranty). It took Sony 13 versions of the PS2 to eliminate DRE.

Today, Microsoft has their own hardware fiasco: RRoD (Red Ring of Death). Initially, they extended launch console warranties from 90 days to 1 year. Then they extended all consoles to one year. Since the problem is apparently prevalent, they have gone to 3 years, which is unheard of for a gaming console. To me, that shows promise that they are dedicated to fixing the issue. Most electronics in general don't go over a one year warranty, so I can feel confident about my future 360 Elite purchase, whether it has a 65nm CPU or not.

Bravo, Microsoft. Way to take responsibility and set the bar without getting class-action lawsuits and further consumer headache involved.