Microsoft hints Next Xbox May Be a Premium Gaming PC
Paris, France - Microsoft’s future home console plans are taking shape, and according too Xbox president Sarah Bond, the next generation will deliver a “high-end and very premium experience” heavily inspired by the Xbox ROG Ally handheld. This suggests a potential shift away from conventional console design towards a machine resembling a powerful Windows gaming PC.
Speaking to Mashable this week, Bond acknowledged the similarities, stating, “You’re starting to see some of our ideas in this portable console… but I don’t want to reveal everything to you.”
The move aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to establish Windows as the leading gaming platform. Bond previously stated the next Xbox experience woudl extend beyond the Xbox store, mirroring the ROG Ally’s ability to launch games from Steam and other storefronts.
While Microsoft officially denies reports of discontinuing its home consoles-a claim met with skepticism following recent statements-the direction indicated by Bond raises questions about the future of Xbox hardware. It remains unclear whether Microsoft will manufacture the console itself or partner with companies like Asus, who produced the ROG Xbox Ally.
The potential for a high-end, Windows-based Xbox raises concerns about affordability, possibly exceeding €1000. In a market dominated by Sony and Nintendo, and where Microsoft’s strength lies in its software and Game Pass subscription service, the viability of a console offering similar functionality to existing PCs remains to be seen. The console will be powered by AMD.
