UPDATE: Microsoft sent along this statement in response to a request from Ars Technica.

Xbox One does not include a pack-in headset accessory. Each Xbox One includes the new Kinect sensor, with a highly sensitive multi-array microphones designed to enable voice inputs and chat as a system-level capability, both in-game and with Skype and other experiences. For gamers who prefer a headset, we have a variety of offerings that you can find on the Xbox Wire.

ORIGINAL STORY

Amid the fallout from an explosive E3 earlier this month, Microsoft quietly revealed some of the official accessories that will be released alongside the Xbox One in November. On this list was a one-ear mono headset that seems relatively unremarkable except for one well-hidden fact: it apparently will not be included in the box with the Xbox One.

The Official Xbox Magazine confirmed the lack of a packaged headset with Xbox Support, which tweeted that the system "does not come with a headset." That's in contrast to the current $299, 250GB Xbox 360 model, which includes a basic headset in the box (the lower-priced 4GB model does not include a headset). It's also another difference between the Xbox One and the PlayStation 4, the latter of which will include a basic mono earbud and microphone with each system.

Xbox One users without a headset will still be able to chat with friends using the included Kinect and its multidirectional microphone. Microsoft has taken great pains to show off that device filtering out TV noise and picking up even quiet voice commands from around the room. However, it remains to be seen just how well this setup can replace a standard headset for multiplayer chat.

Microsoft has not revealed a price for its optional headset accessory, but it's promoting a variety of third-party headsets from Turtle Beach and Polk for prices up to $200. These units promise to be able to stream stereo or surround game audio through the wireless controller rather than requiring a long cord connected to the system or TV.

Thanks to a proprietary connection to the controller, existing Xbox 360 headsets will not be directly usable on the Xbox One. Turtle Beach, however, has said that it will be providing an adapter that lets its Xbox One headsets work on Xbox 360 controllers, proving that such inter-compatibility is possible with extra hardware.

In addition to the headset, Microsoft has revealed a Play and Charge kit for the Xbox One. This will replace the standard AA batteries on the Xbox One controller with a rechargeable pack, much like the similar product for the Xbox 360. PlayStation 4 controllers will be rechargeable out of the box, but standard Xbox One controllers will be usable in a "wired" mode when connected to the system via a normal USB micro cable.