Microsoft May Be Planning Multiple Next-Gen Xbox Models, Including a Portable Console
A new report from Windows Central has shared more details about Microsoft’s next-generation Xbox plans. The information brings together previous rumors and adds new elements, suggesting that Microsoft may be preparing a range of next-gen Xbox devices, possibly including an official portable console.
The main idea remains the same as previously reported: for the next generation, Microsoft appears to be aiming for a hybrid Xbox-PC platform. The goal is to reduce the gap between console and PC gaming by building the new system on an optimized version of Windows 11, with a user-friendly interface but PC-like flexibility.
The custom AMD system-on-chip, codenamed “Magnus”, is expected to ensure backward compatibility with Xbox Series X|S games and older Xbox titles. At the same time, it should allow access to PC games and third-party stores such as Steam, Epic Games Store, and others.
An Ecosystem With More Freedom Of Choice
There have already been many rumors pointing in this direction, and recent statements seem to support them. AMD’s CEO has confirmed that development of the new Xbox hardware is progressing well and remains on track for a 2027 launch. In addition, Epic Games Store’s leadership has hinted at possible future support.
What journalist Jez Corden adds is the idea of a broader Xbox ecosystem. Microsoft would not rely on a single console, but instead build a family of Xbox-branded devices, developed as OEM products in partnership with other companies.
Something similar is already happening with the ROG Xbox Ally made by ASUS, and more devices could follow. These systems would differ in form and price, but all would share the Xbox brand and ecosystem.
Within this wider strategy, Microsoft may not have abandoned the idea of a first-party Xbox portable console. While the project was thought to be paused in order to focus on the main home console, Corden claims it is still under consideration.
“Despite rumors to the contrary, I’m told Microsoft also still wants to make a first-party Xbox handheld eventually, too, even if the traditional next-gen Xbox console is the focus for now.”
“Xbox’s first-party console will be the baseline, quintessential “Xbox” experience, but we could see more expensive, even more super-premium Xbox “consoles” from Microsoft’s Windows partners, as well as slimmed-down, more affordable options on top.”
The overall vision, then, is that the next Xbox platform will let users choose not only the hardware they prefer, but also the store they want to use, offering more flexibility than any previous Xbox generation.
