February 13th 2024.
Is it possible that Xbox is working on a portable console? The head of Xbox seems to have confirmed the rumors that Microsoft is developing a handheld device similar to the Nintendo Switch. With Xbox's upcoming announcement on Thursday, many are expecting the confirmation of at least some of their exclusive games being available on multiple platforms. However, there may be more to the story. There are speculations about Xbox either abandoning hardware altogether or releasing their next console early, and it is possible that we might get a glimpse into Microsoft's other gaming plans.
One of the ongoing rumors is the development of a hybrid device similar to the Switch, complete with a dock. There are talks of a potential launch in 2026, although nothing has been officially confirmed. Xbox boss Phil Spencer has shown interest in the idea, as he suggested on Twitter. The Verge reporter Tom Warren also shared an image of the Xbox operating system running on a Steam Deck, which was liked by Spencer. In a follow-up tweet, Warren urged Microsoft to make this a reality, which was also liked by Spencer.
Some may dismiss this as just a friendly interaction, but this is not the first time Spencer has shown interest in an Xbox handheld. Earlier this month, he liked a post on Windows Central Gaming about the necessity of an Xbox handheld for Microsoft. Considering that Spencer does not usually respond to rumors or articles about Xbox's future plans, it is possible that there might be some truth to these speculations.
In response to a tweet asking about the possibility of Xbox developing a dedicated operating system for handheld devices, Spencer shared a thinking face emoji. This further adds fuel to the rumors and suggests that an Xbox operating system for other handheld devices might be in the works.
If these rumors are true, it is unlikely that we will get an official reveal of a new Xbox console during Thursday's presentation, as it is in a low-key podcast format. However, Xbox might drop some hints or use vague wording to tease their future plans, as they have done in the past.
It is quite surprising that neither Sony nor Microsoft has attempted to copy the Switch before, given the numerous PC-based versions of the concept, such as the Steam Deck. The only thing remotely similar to the Switch is the PlayStation Portable. By 2026, the Switch will have been around for a long time, and Microsoft risks being too late to the game if the Switch 2 is significantly different from its predecessor. However, the original rumor also mentioned the possibility of a traditional home console, so there may be more to this than just a handheld device.
Another possibility could be an Xbox operating system available on other platforms, which might be a more straightforward approach. However, Spencer has previously stated that companies like Sony and Nintendo are not interested in hosting Xbox Game Pass on their platforms.
We will have to wait until Thursday to see Xbox's next move, whether it involves a new console or not. In the meantime, you can join the special edition of the Official Xbox Podcast, where Phil Spencer, Sarah Bond, and Matt Booty will share updates on the Xbox business. You can also stay up to date with all the latest gaming news and releases by signing up for our newsletter.
In other news, a Microsoft executive has hinted that Sony and Nintendo might be part of Xbox's future strategy. However, the FTC has criticized Microsoft for their recent job cuts, and there are rumors that the company is facing turmoil within its Xbox division. To submit letters and features to our Inbox section more conveniently, you can use our Submit Stuff page. Don't forget to sign up for our exclusive gaming content and be the first to know about upcoming releases.
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