Joystiq.com have revealed the expected release date for the next annual Xbox LIVE Dashboard update which is set to provide additional security and new features.

Images sent to Joystiq by a Microsoft tech support employee reveal that the next Dashboard update will begin rolling out on May 19.

According to the documents, the update will be distributed in six separate waves between May 19 and May 30 "to ensure a high quality deployment." Additionally, while not technically part of the automatic update, Avatar Kinect is listed for a May 27 arrival as a separate download.

Aside from offering support for the new Microsoft disc format -- which will "be used in future game titles releasing later in 2011" -- the spring system update will enable PayPal support on the console, extending the payment option "to new international markets." PayPal will be "the only user facing feature" of the update.


The Spring 2011 System Update will expand paypal to new international markets and enable Paypal to be used as a payment method for points, content, and subscription purchased on the Xbox 360 Console. This is the only user facing feature in this update.

This release will also introduce support for a Xbox Game Disc Format (XGD3) that will be used in future game titles releasing later in 2011.

Additionally, Avatar Kinect will become available on May 27th as a separate download.

Announced ealier this year at CES, Avatar Kinect puts your avatar in over 15 virtual chat room environments where you can chat with up to 7 other people on Xbox LIVE.

Avatar Kinect uses the information from the Kinect Sensor and tracks your hand, arm, head movement and facial recognition and translates this to your avatar.

News-Source: joystiq.com"