Why Microsoft doesn't reveal hardware numbers.

[NATO]

Zkuq said:

NATO said:

There is only one reason not to share numbers, and that's being behind in sales.

Microsoft were quite happy to share numbers last gen in the US, the only thing that has changed since is they're no longer leading.

This is nothing but a bullshit excuse from phil.

You can release numbers *AND* focus on your userbase, you don't have to pick.

That's probably the real reason, but the reason they gave is a good one too. Hardware sales numbers themselves aren't really a very good indicator because games are where the money's at.

the thread is specifically about hardware numbers, hardware numbers gives a good indication of an install base, active or otherwise.

Just because a (going off of his example), console is sat in someones cupboard unused, doesn't mean the owner won't take it out and play on it if the right game comes along.