Buying an Xbox 360 could get more like buying a smartphone from a network service provider in U.S. Recent report is that Microsoft could offer the Xbox 360 bundle including the popular Kinect sensor on a subsidized price of $99 on two year contract terms. And it could hit the market as soon as this week.

Citing unnamed sources, The Verge reports that the 4GB version of Xbox 360 with Kinect sensor will be made available on Microsoft stores in U.S with a price tag of $99. Microsoft's new deal is identical to traditional cell phone plans. But instead of two-year contract, consumers will have to commit to pay $15 a month for next two years. The monthly fee includes subscription for Xbox Live Gold service along with an unspecified content streaming service, possibly cable or live sports video service - it could be Netflix too.

The $99 price tag will make Xbox 360 reach every house. The wireless carrier-like plan is new but Microsoft is giving with one hand and taking it back with another. Currently 4GB Xbox 360 with Kinect costs $299 and Xbox Live Gold plan is priced at $59 per year. So the total cost is $418. But in case of the new cell phone type plan, consumers will have to pay $99 for the bundle and $360 in next two years, taking the overall cost to $459, which is $51 more than the regular purchase.

"What is up with the $15 a month? Currently the same service is available for $5. Unless they are going to add a layer of service, it isn't worth it," said market analyst Billy Pidgeon.

The advantage of buying Xbox 360 at subsidized rate is that consumers can take Xbox 360 home in just $99. However they will be locked up with the same console for upcoming two years.

(reported by Johnny Wills, edited by Dave Clark)