The gaming world is buzzing with anticipation as rumors of a first-party Xbox handheld console continue to swirl. Despite earlier reports of its cancellation, insiders claim that Microsoft is still working on a dedicated handheld device.
Xbox reportedly planning to bring a first party handheld console
Xbox is gearing up to launch its very own first-party handheld console, set to shake up the portable gaming market.
Microsoft was previously thought to have abandoned plans for a first-party portable Xbox device. However, a new report suggests the company is still moving forward with the project, amidst discussions of a next-generation Windows-based console.
A recent report from Windows Central claims that Microsoft hasn’t ruled out the possibility of releasing a dedicated Xbox handheld console in the future. The handheld project is still on the table as Microsoft aims to grow the Xbox ecosystem across different device types.
The Gen 10 Xbox promises to be a powerhouse of versatility, blending console comfort with PC prowess. Imagine the Xbox Ally on steroids – a TV-friendly interface layered atop a full-fledged Windows machine. Users will be able to seamlessly switch between gaming, streaming, coding, or music production, and still enjoy their entire Xbox library, including titles from Steam and other PC stores. This hybrid approach puts unprecedented flexibility at their fingertips, redefining what’s possible on a console.
Xbox President Sarah Bond reaffirmed the commitment to first-party hardware last summer. This was after the ASUS-made Xbox Ally raised questions about Xbox’s strategy. Bond highlighted a multi-year deal with AMD for the next-gen Xbox.
The new console will also support existing Xbox games through backward compatibility. AMD’s internal codename for the Xbox SoC is Magnus, but that’s not the name Microsoft’s using for the device itself.
AMD CEO Lisa Su has hinted at a 2027 launch window for the next-gen Xbox, which aligns with previous reports. “Development of Microsoft’s next-gen Xbox featuring an AMD semi-custom SoC is progressing well to support a launch in 2027,” Su said.
However, insiders were surprised by Lisa Su’s comments on the timeline. Microsoft hasn’t officially locked in a 2027 launch, as it is still dependent on Windows 11 updates and other factors.
Originally reported by Sibanee Gogoi on Mandatory.
