Explain graphics output: consoles vs pc

[neocon]

Do consoles really output at 1080p or do they output at 720p and upscale it?
I mean, if you select 1080p over 720p are you changing the textures used in the game?

I have heard people boasting about 1080p , being full hd.

PC's can genuinely output 1080p (or equivalent) and use larger texture files.

I didnt put this in the console section as to aviod fan flaming.

 

[neocon]

so its downscaled to 720p?

but how could console cope with such huge textures?