November 20th 2024.
Xbox's next console may not be too far off, and Microsoft is already making big promises for its next generation hardware. It seems that their plans include a handheld Xbox device as well. Despite facing challenges such as layoffs and low sales with the Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft has been able to turn things around with the recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard. This has led to a shift in their strategy towards multiplatform releases and expanding their subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, to other devices. However, with the Xbox Series X/S lagging behind the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, Microsoft is already looking towards the future and discussing their next generation plans, which appear to involve more than one piece of hardware.
Xbox President Sarah Bond has been vocal about the company's next gen console, teasing the "biggest technological leap ever" without revealing any specific details. She mentioned earlier this year that they are invested in the next generation roadmap and are focused on delivering an unprecedented level of technological advancement. While there is no information about the hardware itself, Microsoft has formed a team dedicated to game preservation, indicating that their future console will be backwards compatible.
One question that remains is whether the next Xbox will include a handheld device. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer confirmed in an interview with Bloomberg that they are working on handheld prototypes, but it will still be a few years before it is released. This lines up with previous rumors of a new Xbox console around 2026 or 2027. It is unclear whether the device will be a streaming-only option like the PlayStation Portal, a hybrid like the Switch, or something completely different like the Steam Deck. While Microsoft has not confirmed anything, early rumors suggest they are exploring a hybrid option.
When asked about the handheld rumors, Spencer mentioned that he is a fan of handhelds and that they are learning from Nintendo's success with the Switch. This could indicate that Xbox's handheld will have a similar approach or offer something entirely new. If it is still a few years away, it is possible that it will tie in with their next main console, but only time will tell what direction they will take. With the rumored launch of the Switch 2 next year, Microsoft may be waiting to see what Nintendo does so they can offer something different or improve upon it down the line.
In the meantime, Xbox has announced their next big exclusive game, Indiana Jones And The Great Circle. It's unclear if this will be for the current generation or the next, but for now, it's something for fans to look forward to. As always, you can stay updated on all things Xbox by following them on Twitter, signing up for their newsletter, or sending them an email. And if you have any ideas or features you'd like to submit, you can easily do so through their Submit Stuff page. With the recent launch of the Steam Deck and the upcoming Switch 2, it will be interesting to see what Xbox has in store for their next generation of consoles.
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