There are lots of sounds we associate with our devices – whether it be the dread that comes with our phone alarms going off or the relaxing sound of opening the Netflix app.
But have you ever noticed that the Xbox start-up tune sounds quite familiar? In fact, some are adamant it sounds like a hit song and have taken to social media to share their thoughts.
Inspired by a TikTok user who likened the MacBook startup sound to the intro of Sinead O’Connor’s Nothing Compares 2 U, Haley decided to “speak her truth”.
She boldly stated that the Xbox startup sound was reminiscent of the beginning of ABBA’s Gimme, Gimme, Gimme or Madonna’s Hung Up, which samples the ABBA hit. To prove her point, Haley turned on her console and started humming along to the sound.
The revelation has certainly divided opinion – with some saying the sound is reminiscent of another track. A few pointed out that they can hear Apple by Charli XCX when they plug in their devices.
One commenter said: “To me, it sounds like a faster version of the intro to Apple by Charli XCX.” But another agreed with Haley’s ABBA take.
They shared: “Yes! I sing the opening line every time, and my boyfriend doesn’t get it.” Meanwhile, a third confessed: “Nah, the moment you said the song I got it and can’t believe I never thought of it!”
What is the Xbox start-up sound?
The Xbox start-up sound is a short audio clip that plays when the console is powered on, and it varies depending on the generation of the Xbox console. Each generation has its own distinct sound, usually evoking a futuristic, technological atmosphere.
- Original Xbox (2001): The start-up sound featured a swirling, ambient sound with a sci-fi vibe, accompanied by a visual animation of a green orb with liquid effects.
- Xbox 360 (2005): The Xbox 360 start-up sound was a bright, electronic chime that was clean and simple. It was paired with the animation of the Xbox logo forming a sphere.
- Xbox One (2013): The Xbox One start-up sound was subtle and minimalistic—a gentle electronic chime that matched the console’s modern and streamlined design.
- Xbox Series X and Series S (2020): The newer consoles, Xbox Series X and S, feature a short, futuristic sound that’s clean and soft, reflecting the fast and smooth boot-up process of modern gaming hardware.