Information leaks too fast for Microsoft

The difficulty of keeping secrets in the instantaneous age of the Internet and digital cameras should come as no surprise to the world's leading technology company, Microsoft Corp.


But this week, the behemoth software maker apparently was caught off guard.


Microsoft intends to preview its new gaming console, dubbed Xbox 360, to the world on Thursday via an MTV special. The Redmond, Wash.-based company invited 200 people to attend the Los Angeles taping and asked them not to reveal what they saw until the show's broadcast.


Some of the attendees apparently couldn't resist and snapped photographs that have been widely circulated on the Web. (Note to Microsoft's publicity department: The next time you decide to give 200 strangers a sneak peek at a product you should probably insist participants check their cameras at the door.)


The photos reveal that Xbox 360 is slightly concave, features an oversized power button, wireless headset and DVD remote.


Microsoft isn't the only company contending ever more frequently with leaks about upcoming products.


In December, Apple Computer Inc. sued 25 unnamed individuals who allegedly leaked product information.


It is unknown whether Microsoft plans any legal action. The company has refused to comment.