Microsoft chairman Bill Gates recently sat down with National French newspaper Les Echoes to discuss a variety of topics including the Xbox. To begin, Gates was asked about the disappointing performance of the console in the Japanese market. Putting things in perspective, Gates said, "Being a new player in this business, we're satisfied with the number two position behind Sony and ahead of Nintendo is the global console market. We think that's particularly significant because software developers have historically only supported the top two platforms. With the launch of Xbox Live, our console provides opportunities that Sony can't match right out of the box."

Continuing, Gates shed some light on the future, "The next-generation Xbox will feature digital media capabilities such as video and photo editing in addition to games. It will also allow for Internet capabilities without the need for direct connections through Wi-Fi. As for the Japanese market, we knew it was going to be difficult, and we will continue to invest in the Xbox there."

Chairman Gates was also asked about rumors suggesting Microsoft plans to purchase Vivendi Universal's videogame division. In denial, Gates said, "As far as I know there are currently no negotiations in progress. If there were serious discussions regarding a buyout, I'd definitely know about it."