As the Xbox Series X and S approach the end of their lifecycle in their fifth year, Microsoft is reportedly gearing up for the next generation of gaming consoles. Recent leaks indicate that these next-gen consoles could debut in 2027 alongside not just one, but two handheld gaming devices.
This article delves into the specifics of these leaks, offering insights into what gamers can anticipate from the future of Xbox gaming.
Over the past two years, Microsoft’s Xbox division has undergone significant shifts. The company is now launching exclusive titles, such as Forza Horizon 5 and Sea of Thieves, on competing platforms like PlayStation. Additionally, with its innovative cloud gaming service, Microsoft is promoting a variety of smart devices as potential gaming platforms, which has led to speculation about the future of dedicated Xbox hardware.
These strategic changes have stirred concerns among fans regarding the trajectory of Xbox consoles. Some have even questioned whether Microsoft would prioritize new hardware development, considering its expanded vision of gaming across numerous smart devices.
Rest assured, there are credible reports, particularly from Windows Central—known for its accurate leaks—confirming that new Xbox consoles are indeed on the horizon, and they will come in various shapes and sizes.
What to Expect from the Next-Gen Xbox Lineup
Windows Central reveals that the next-generation Xbox family may include four distinct consoles: a direct successor to the Xbox Series X and S, an in-house developed handheld device, and a second handheld device created in partnership with ASUS.
The decision to introduce two handheld consoles stems from a strategic view of the gaming landscape. According to Tom Warren from The Verge, the ASUS-manufactured device will run on Windows rather than the Xbox operating system, distinguishing it from other handhelds on the market. This first handheld is reportedly codenamed “Kennan,” complete with an official Xbox Guide button, and is slated for release in 2025, although there may be some confusion around its codename, as Warren speculates it could be “Keenan.”
Microsoft’s proprietary handheld device is anticipated to release in 2027, aligning with the rest of the next-generation lineup. Notably, this first handheld will serve as a testing ground, allowing Microsoft to gauge market response before launching the second handheld in 2027. Both handhelds are expected to support popular platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store, reflecting a commitment to versatile gaming experiences.
Additionally, all devices in the next-gen Xbox family are predicted to include backward compatibility and support for various storefronts, though it’s crucial to keep in mind that these plans may evolve over the coming years.
Performance Expectations: Aiming for 60 FPS as Standard
Current Xbox consoles primarily target frame rates of 30 FPS in fidelity mode and 60 FPS in performance mode. Given that the next-gen consoles are anticipated to launch seven years after the current generation, it seems reasonable to expect 60 FPS as the standard baseline for these new devices. However, concrete confirmations on this front remain pending.
Projected Release Timeline for Next-Gen Consoles
According to the leaks, one of the handheld consoles is set to arrive by late 2025, developed in collaboration with ASUS. The second handheld, along with the successors to the Xbox Series S and X, is expected to be unveiled in 2027, aligning with the typical console generation span of approximately seven years.
Considering that the Xbox Series S and X launched in 2020, the projected 2027 release timeframe appears plausible.