Microprocessor manufacturer ARM has indicated that Xbox-quality games could soon come to mobile phones thanks to the introduction of two new processor chips, the high-end Mali-200 and Mali-400. If developers jump onto the potentially lucrative concept,

ARM believes that games which would not look out of place on the Xbox 360 could appear from Q4 this year and revolutionise the world of mobile gaming. And as the switch to mobile is already well in motion, the timing seems perfect for console quality games to make the move too. Thanks to devices like the Apple iPhone, mobile gaming is already popular and set to soar as developers think up new and innovative ways to lure mobile gamers towards their wares.

One such application is the upcoming Second Life-style iPhone app, Sparkle, which will allow iPhone users to interact with others worldwide within a virtual world, whilst on the move with their mobile. ARM's Mali processors have already made an appearance on the mobile market. LG shows off a Mali-55 in its Renoir model and ARM also works with mobile phone manufacturers Samsung and Motorola.

According to a press release, Borgar Ljosland, director of advanced product marketing for ARM’s Media Processing Division, said: "Gaming strategy and visually compelling applications are becoming increasingly important now that mobile handheld devices are so prolific, and the time has come to create innovative new gaming concepts."

If successful, the chips could see a move from more traditional console gaming on devices like the Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii towards mobile gaming - a trend that would undoubtedly see thorough competition from console manufacturers