Xbox 720 Development Causing Microsoft to Ramp Up Security at MS HQ?

While Microsoft has not released, or even acknowledged the Xbox 720's existence, we all know it's going to come sooner rather than later. Most industry insiders and analysts predict a reveal and release as early as the middle of 2013.

In saying all this, Microsoft might not be forthcoming with info, but they are now shoring up their headquarters' security and it's allegedly due to the development of the Xbox 720 or whatever Microsoft calls its next-gen console.

According to GeekWire, Microsoft is boosting security at their Redmond campus that's home to the Xbox team. The report states that the company notified its employees that it will be implementing new physical security measures. These new security protocols means that  it will limit employee access at four key Xbox and Interactive Entertainment Business buildings to ensure secrecy and confidentiality of "upcoming" products.

The security changes will supposedly affect Microsoft Studios A, B, C, and D on the west side of state Route 520, starting with Studio A early next month, with the other buildings employing the same protocols by the end of the month.

Only employees and vendors in Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business or people assigned to the buildings will have access. Other personnel — be it vendors or employees — will need to go through an online registration process or register at the building as visitors. As visitors, they will need to be escorted by another employee with access to the buildings. This security shift won't impact the Common areas in the middle of the Xbox campus though.

Keep in mind that this is not confirmation of the next Xbox being developed there, but seeing as it is the Xbox team and they're working on "upcoming" products, what else can they be working on, no?

Hopefully, Microsoft announces something concrete soon so we don't have to take any tablescraps we can get in regards to their next-gen platform.

Will you be getting an Xbox 720 or has the Xbox 360s Red Ring of Death stigma is still fresh on your mind?