There's someone at the Federal Trade Commission who really enjoys revealing information about upcoming technologies. This time, she got her hands on documents from Microsoft that detail plans for Xbox consoles through 2028. As they consider what to do for the future, Microsoft's plans for Xbox are starting to come to light. resemble Sony's current initiatives with their PlayStation portable console.
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Leaked documents from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) show that Microsoft has exciting plans for Xbox, from two handheld console possibilities to details about the improvements that the new generation (which will arrive in 2028?) could bring. Let's see what these documents announce for Microsoft and the Xbox console.
The first item on the agenda is the next generation of Xbox after the S|X series, which Microsoft plans for 2028. According to the slides shared, Microsoft wants its next console to combine client technology and cloud technology to give players more options in how they play. While there aren't many details on how this will happen, the documents mention a “Thin OS,” which could give the console cloud capabilities.
Aside from capabilities, there has also been a lot of talk about the hardware that the next console generation will use, including both ARM and AMD Zen 6×64 options with the Navi 5 GPU that was either co-developed with AMD or licensed only for the next console. For those of us who aren't familiar with all the technical aspects of the Xbox console, this basically means that the console will be getting some serious improvements when it comes to its game development capabilities in the coming years.
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The next step is a portable version of the Xbox and a cloud gaming device. Interestingly, these devices will be distinct, meaning it won't just be a portable device only capable of cloud gaming. The portable device will be closer to the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch.
Since Xbox already has their console, and they wouldn't want their handheld to compete with their flagship console, it won't have docking capabilities like the Nintendo Switch. However, it will work more like the Steam Deck.
The fact that Microsoft plans to release two different handheld devices is a key distinction, considering what's happening with PlayStation Portal. PlayStation fans are unimpressed that the Portal will not have any onboard gaming capabilities, and is only an accessory to the PlayStation 5 that allows cloud gaming through the console. To do this, you need a robust and stable internet connection and the console to be turned on.
It's remarkable that Microsoft is learning from Sony's mistakes and wanting to create a device that is suitable for both gamers who want cloud gaming options and those who want a fully functional standalone portable device.
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