Next-Gen Xbox Consoles to Embrace Multiple Storefronts and Enhanced Backward Compatibility
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Microsoft’s gaming division is poised to disrupt the console landscape with its next generation of Xbox devices. Xbox President Sarah Bond confirmed that the new consoles will support titles from various digital storefronts and maintain backward compatibility, a move applauded by gamers eager to access their existing libraries. This announcement,coupled with a renewed partnership with AMD,hints at both a traditional living room console and a dedicated Xbox handheld device powered by custom-designed processors.
Microsoft and AMD Collaborate on Future Xbox Hardware
Microsoft is doubling down on its collaboration with AMD to develop processors for its upcoming consoles, including potential handheld devices. The new silicon will feature next-generation graphics and incorporate AI capabilities, according to both companies.This partnership builds upon a long-standing relationship, as AMD has supplied CPUs and GPUs for every Xbox console as the Xbox 360, as well as for the PlayStation 4 and 5 [[2]].
Did You Know? AMD has been a key partner for Xbox, providing processors since the Xbox 360.
Xbox Handheld on the Horizon?
The announcement has fueled speculation about a dedicated Xbox handheld device. While previous reports suggested that Microsoft had abandoned plans for an official portable Xbox, the collaboration with AMD on custom chipsets indicates a possible shift in strategy. Unlike the Ryzen AI Z2 chips found in devices like the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds,a custom chipset could allow for enhanced backward compatibility with older Xbox titles.
Breaking Down the Xbox Strategy
Microsoft’s approach appears to be an evolution of the Xbox Ally handhelds, which run Windows OS and offer a controller-friendly interface that integrates Steam, the Epic Games Store, Game Pass, and the Microsoft Store.The primary drawback of these devices is their lack of backward compatibility with older Xbox games.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on future announcements from Microsoft and AMD for more details on the specifications and release dates of the new xbox consoles and handheld devices.
Competition Heats Up: Sony’s PlayStation 6 and Handheld Plans
The gaming console landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with both Microsoft and Sony exploring new hardware options. AMD is also collaborating with Sony to develop an SoC for the PlayStation 6,based on the upcoming Zen 6 and RDNA architectures. Rumors suggest that Sony is also planning to release a handheld companion to the PS6, mirroring Microsoft’s potential move into the handheld market.
| feature | Next-gen Xbox | PlayStation 6 (Rumored) |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple Storefront Support | Confirmed | Unknown |
| Backward Compatibility | Confirmed | Unknown |
| AMD Partnership | Confirmed | Confirmed |
| Handheld Device | Possible | Possible |
Will the next generation of consoles prioritize open ecosystems? How will backward compatibility shape the future of gaming?
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