Xbox One will not require constant Internet connection

Microsoft's next-generation Xbox--the Xbox One--will not require a constant Internet connection to function, the company confirmed today following its reveal event.

"No, you don't always have to be connected," Xbox boss Don Mattrick said on Spike TV. "Gamers can calm down; we've got you covered."

Prior to today's announcement, numerous reports claimed that Microsoft's next-generation Xbox would work only if users remained connected to the Internet. However, a leaked internal memo that surfaced earlier this month was the first to say this speculation was wrong.