With Chris busy at CES I figured I'd throw up this nugget just in from Microsoft: they are going to be releasing an external HD-DVD drive for the Xbox 360 this year. No specific release date or price point was mentioned in the press release, which also touches on Windows Vista, Windows Live plans and other Micosoft products.

Building on Xbox 360 leadership in high-definition experiences, the company announced plans to deliver a new Xbox 360 external HD DVD drive in 2006. The new drive will offer millions of Xbox 360 owners the ability to easily enjoy HD DVD movies and will provide consumers with even more choices for experiencing high-definition content, in either physical or digital form.