In a recent official Xbox podcast, Xbox president Sarah Bond hinted at the possibility of unique Xbox hardware in the future, along with a powerful next-generation console.
Speaking to The Verge, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer further elaborated on the hardware possibilities, indicating a potential shift towards diverse gaming devices.
The Largest Technical Leap
Bond emphasized Microsoft’s commitment to delivering “the largest technical leap” in the next-generation Xbox, promising exciting hardware updates to be shared later this year. She highlighted the focus on enhancing player experiences and enabling creators to realize their visions.
Key Updates from the Podcast
The podcast also featured discussions from Phil Spencer, Sarah Bond, and Matt Booty covering various updates on Xbox business strategies:
Game Exclusivity: Four Xbox games will be made available on other consoles (PS5 and Nintendo Switch), focusing on titles over a year old, community-driven, or smaller games not initially intended as exclusives. Based on reports, Hi-Fi Rush and Pentiment will arrive first, followed by Sea of Thieves and Grounded.
However, first-party games will continue to be accessible on Xbox and PC, with ongoing investments in Game Pass.
Activision Blizzard Acquisition: The acquisition of Activision Blizzard is anticipated to enrich Game Pass with more games from the renowned developer.
Hardware: Microsoft remains dedicated to enhancing its hardware offerings, aiming to create the best platform for both players and creators. Investments in cloud gaming seek to expand accessibility across different devices.
Game Pass Expansion: Xbox will continue to prioritize Game Pass, adding more games and extending its availability to a wider range of devices.
Crossplay and Cross-Save Support: Ensuring compatibility across platforms, Xbox reaffirms its commitment to enabling crossplay and cross-save features.
Teasing Future Hardware Innovations
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer highlighted the company’s innovative hardware endeavors, hinting at the exploration of diverse hardware options to cater to gamers’ preferences.
Spencer mentioned the possibility of an Xbox handheld device, stating, “We see a lot of opportunity in different types of devices.”
Rumors of an Xbox Handheld
Persistent rumors surround the potential release of an Xbox handheld, although Spencer remained cautious about confirming such plans.
Acknowledging the challenges, he discussed the need for refining the gaming experience on smaller screens and controller input for handheld devices.
Continued Hardware Developments
Ahead of the anticipated next-generation Xbox, Microsoft hints at the possibility of a discless Xbox Series X and new controller options.
The company assures players of a robust and innovative hardware roadmap, promising enhanced gaming experiences tailored to the latest features and services.