Xbox Handheld Prototype in Development
Microsoft’s Phil Spencer recently confirmed that the Xbox handheld is still in the prototype stage and is expected to be several years away from an official release. However, recent leaks have sparked speculations that we may see a handheld device from Microsoft later this year. The rumored ‘Project Kennan’ handheld is said to be in collaboration with Asus, potentially marking the first step towards merging Xbox with Windows in a significant way.
What to Expect from the Xbox Handheld
As we anticipate the arrival of the Xbox handheld, the big question is whether Microsoft has designed a unique OEM handheld device that other manufacturers like Asus, Dell, and Lenovo can license or if the Xbox connection will be purely software-based. A custom processor akin to Valve’s Steam Deck could potentially power this device, offering a level of performance that can match the current console generation.
- Introduction
- News 1: Xbox-branded Windows handheld reportedly in development
- News 2: Death Stranding 2 gets release date, new trailer
- News 3: 9950X3D launches with impressive performance
- News 4: Elder Scrolls Oblivion remake rumored
- News 5: AI Aloy prototype debuts in leaked footage
- Supporter Q1: Have we underestimated PS5 Pro’s ML performance?
- Supporter Q2: Is Nvidia betting on a big gaming performance increase for the 60 series?
- Supporter Q3: Could the PS4 survive indefinitely as a platform?
- Supporter Q4: How should we understand generational leaps for PC gaming?
- Supporter Q5: Will the Series X become a sought-after retro console?
- Supporter Q6: Could you produce videos showing carefully tailored experiences for certain graphics cards?
- Supporter Q7: Is Nvidia’s focus on proprietary tech helping or hurting PC gaming?
While the details are still uncertain, it’s possible that the Xbox handheld may come with an off-the-shelf AMD design featuring Xbox-exclusive software enhancements. The focus, however, should be on delivering a seamless user experience on PC, integrating games from multiple stores into one interface, and optimizing system updates without disrupting the user’s interaction with the device.
Challenges Ahead for Microsoft
Microsoft’s foray into the handheld market will undoubtedly face challenges, especially in terms of overcoming the inherent limitations of Windows 11 on handheld devices. The company needs to streamline the user experience and tackle issues like shader compilation stutter for a smoother gaming experience.
Furthermore, Microsoft’s strategy should include backward compatibility for all Xbox digital purchases, ensuring a seamless transition for users to access their existing game library on the handheld device. Balancing performance with power efficiency and addressing potential hurdles in running third-party current-gen games will be key for the success of the Xbox handheld.
Ultimately, Microsoft’s goal of creating a unified gaming ecosystem that bridges PC and Xbox platforms is ambitious but necessary for staying competitive in the market. The collaboration with Asus on the Kennan handheld signals the beginning of a new era in gaming, paving the way for future innovations until the next generation consoles and the ‘real’ Xbox handheld make their debut.