According to exclusive reports by my colleague Jez Corden, Microsoft intends to launch its next-generation Xbox hardware around 2027. The current plans suggest that this release will encompass not only a new Xbox console but also an Xbox handheld device, with the console being more closely aligned with Windows than ever before.
Pondering the recent news and Microsoft’s upcoming 50th anniversary, a sense of nostalgia washed over me as I reflected on their past Windows versions, prompting a realization to surface.
It’s my belief that Microsoft has developed the ideal handheld operating system (OS). Rather than focusing on the interface of the current Xbox console, the company could benefit from revisiting the innovative tiled design, reminiscent of “Metro,” which was showcased on Windows Phone and Windows 8.
The Xbox handheld will be “closer to Windows” and that’s a good thing
Over the past few years, there have been doubts about where Microsoft’s gaming and Xbox division is headed.
Some argue that the advancement of modern technology and challenges may signal the demise of gaming consoles. Interpretations of Microsoft’s “This is an Xbox” campaign suggest it could be seen as a tacit acknowledgement of this.
It appears as though Xbox is moving towards a blend, merging console and PC features, which could potentially be advantageous for them if executed effectively.
Imagine if the upcoming Xbox system transforms into a PC hybrid device! This could mean that all your current PC games would be playable on this new console. Furthermore, popular gaming platforms such as Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, itchio, and others would naturally be accessible too. And let’s not forget about the Xbox console games you already own – they’d still be compatible with the hybrid system (assuming backward compatibility applies).
In his article about the upcoming Xbox handheld device, Jez notes that the new generation consoles may be more aligned with Windows than ever before, making it less demanding for developers when transferring games from PC. He also clarifies that these consoles will retain compatibility with older Xbox games as well.
I can’t help but observe that the Xbox seems to be aligning itself more closely with Windows. Instead of causing concern, this shift appears to be a natural progression in the world of technology. This convergence might just make the Xbox experience more advantageous for both developers and users, streamlining the process and enhancing convenience.
This change could potentially make the Xbox portable device more adaptable for upgrades and modifications. Crucially, this move ensures that Xbox remains competitive in the market.
In recent times, there’s been a significant leap forward in portable gaming technology, largely due to the innovative work by Nintendo with their Switch console and Valve with their Steam Deck.
Currently, a variety of compact personal computer devices such as the ROG Ally, Legion Go, MSI Claw 8 AI+, among others, are vying for supremacy in the handheld market, with each aiming to establish itself as the undisputed leader. As an analyst, I’m keeping a keen eye on this competitive landscape.
Essentially, Microsoft faces greater competition in the market for portable devices compared to consoles, which means they must design an exceptional Xbox handheld device to remain competitive against other companies.
I’m less concerned about the case and grip design of the upcoming handheld next-gen Xbox, given that the Xbox Series X controller is renowned for its weight balance, comfortable grips, and excellent control arrangement, placing it among the top gamepads available today.
So, if Microsoft manufactures a handheld device that has a comparable controller and case design to the one you designed, we’re good to go.
However, for Microsoft to guarantee the success of its next-generation Xbox handheld, they must perfect their operating system.
Windows 8 as a true SteamOS competitor
People familiar with the handheld gaming market are well aware that one of the main criticisms for current Windows-based PC gaming handhelds revolves around the fact that they run on a full version of the ‘Windows’ operating system.
Given that it was initially created for use on laptops and desktop computers, it’s no surprise that some users find Windows 11 rather complex and unwieldy in comparison to the streamlined, joystick-compatible interface of Steam Deck’s SteamOS, which has a console-like feel.
With the expansion of SteamOS onto various devices, Windows can expect heightened competition in the portable market, beginning with the Legion Go S – a device powered by SteamOS, set to launch in May.
If Windows fails to adjust effectively to future handheld devices, it might find itself excluded from these technologies. A user-friendly interface similar to Windows 8 could prove beneficial in such a scenario.
In the past, the tiled design was quite controversial, but it’s ideally suited for today’s touchscreen devices.
With this intuitive interface, users can quickly open their frequently used applications, widgets, and software without the need to delve into folders or navigate through menus.
Picture the tiles on a portable Xbox device. Perhaps they have been refreshed with a modern aesthetic, designed to showcase your installed video games, gaming platforms, the Xbox app, Discord, your game snapshots, and other related content.
It’s clean. It’s simple. It’s perfection.
Additionally, this design might be particularly suitable for joystick manipulation and touchscreen gestures, thereby addressing several common issues users encounter when using Windows-based portable devices with their hands.
I’m getting excited just thinking about it.
A compelling Xbox handheld could greatly alter the future of Microsoft gaming
For Microsoft to thrive in the portable gaming market, they should focus on designing a robust Xbox handheld device that considers all portable gaming devices based on PC specifications as competitors, rather than solely viewing PlayStation devices as rivals.
Developing a portable device that can function as both a PC and an Xbox, with its operation being more akin to Windows than ever, presents a fantastic approach.
However, it’s not appropriate to simply recreate Windows 11. Instead, we should aim for an interface that has been custom-made for handheld touchscreens. In this endeavor, Windows 8 serves as a valuable source of inspiration.
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2025-04-03 14:10