Microsoft may soon expand the Xbox ecosystem with a dedicated handheld, according to new reports. Codenamed “Keenan,” the device is said to be developed in partnership with a leading PC gaming brand—potentially ASUS, Lenovo, Razer, or MSI—and could launch as early as 2025.
Handheld Highlights
- Windows-Based System: Unlike the Steam Deck, which relies on Valve’s SteamOS, the Xbox-branded handheld is expected to run on Windows. This paves the way for native access to the Microsoft Store, PC Game Pass, and other core Xbox services.
- Xbox-Centric Aesthetics: The design will reportedly align with Microsoft’s console branding, featuring an iconic Xbox guide button and overall look that “fits the Xbox ethos.”
- Third-Party Partnership: While the exact OEM remains unconfirmed, whispers point to a brand known for gaming hardware—think ASUS, Lenovo, or similar industry heavyweights.
Next-Gen Xbox Plans
- 2027 Release Window: Windows Central indicates the next Xbox console could arrive in 2027. This aligns with the tail end of the traditional console life cycle (about 5-7 years).
- Deeper Windows Integration: The future Xbox hardware will be closer to Windows than ever before, streamlining game development and potentially enhancing cross-platform compatibility.
- Backward Compatibility: Microsoft intends to keep legacy Xbox games running on the new system—a key focus that emphasizes preserving players’ gaming libraries.
New Controllers and Cloud Connectivity
- Direct-to-Cloud Connectivity: Microsoft is also working on advanced controllers designed to easily switch between devices—consoles, handhelds, and PCs—thanks to direct-to-cloud features.
- Streamlined Ecosystem: These new controllers will further unify the Xbox/PC gaming environment, offering a seamless transition between traditional consoles and the upcoming handheld.
The Road Ahead
Xbox Gaming CEO Phil Spencer previously suggested that an Xbox handheld was still “a few years out,” but the recent reports hint at faster movement. As always, schedules can shift, and Microsoft may use this year to “test drive” various partnerships and prototypes. However, if these rumors hold true, fans can look forward to official announcements on both a new handheld and a next-gen Xbox console in the not-too-distant future.
Stay tuned for more updates on Microsoft’s evolving gaming lineup, as further details—like hardware specs, pricing, and precise launch dates—are sure to surface in the coming months.
