Xbox One Problems: Next-Gen Console Leaks Sticky Liquid; How Will Microsoft Respond?

Microsoft’s Xbox One launched on Nov. 22 and like any new console it has experienced a number of glitches and bugs. Two users recently reported that they found a white, sticky liquid leaking from the device, leaving a milky-white residue on the system’s case. The oily substance appeared on the vent of the Xbox One’s heatsink fan.

“…I didn’t just take a picture as soon as I saw the residue, I waited two weeks then came here to the forums, to try and find out if I was the only one with the problem, and then today, I posted the pictures and contacted Microsoft,” said one user, CynicalAnarchy, on the Xbox One’s user forums. “It isn’t causing any problem yet but I wanna figure what it is, and maybe get it fixed.”

A second user responded, saying that he had been experiencing the same problem, but that it had resolved itself without affecting the console's performance.

Some tech experts believe that the liquid is a result of a melting thermal compound applied between the GPU/CPU and heatsink of the Xbox One console during its manufacturing. Others feel that the substance could be a result of a nonworking capacitor inside the console.

Microsoft, which has sold about 2 million Xbox One units, was quick to respond to earlier malfunction reports in late November, when some users were unable to scan Blu-ray movies or games on the next-gen disc drive. The company was also quick to point out that the complication wasn’t a widespread problem. “The issue is affecting a very small number of Xbox One customers,” Microsoft said previously in a statement. “We’re working directly with those affected to get a replacement console to them as soon as possible through our advance exchange program.” The company also urged purchasers to contact it immediately if their Xbox One was experiencing any type of malfunction. “We know that with a hardware launch of this magnitude, customers will have questions. We have many avenues for people to get the answers they need and get back in the game as soon as possible.”

Microsoft has yet to respond to complaints about a liquid leaking from the two Xbox One systems, but we will post updates as more information is released. What do you think about the reports? Are these isolated incidents, or does it indicate a broader problem with potentially faulty consoles? Leave a comment below.

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