Despite rumors of a possible delay to the next generation of consoles due to unstable RAM prices, Microsoft is reportedly going ahead with a 2027 launch for its next Xbox. This was supported by none other than AMD CEO Lisa Su, stating that “Development of Microsoft’s next-gen Xbox featuring an AMD semi-custom SoC is progressing well to support a launch in 2027.”
Windows Central’s Jez Corden has since spoken to sources, who revealed the SoC’s alleged codename: “Magnus.” Interestingly, some insiders were allegedly “taken off guard” by Su’s statement. Which makes sense – outside of Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer promising new hardware and Xbox president Sarah Bond stating it would be a “very premium, very high-end” console, there’s nothing known about the actual release window.
That’s seemingly the case internally as well, says Corden, who revealed that the launch “hinges on improvements to Windows 11 and other factors. Microsoft’s Windows and Xbox teams are collaborating harder than ever to get the OS into shape for a polished, console-like experience on Xbox.” 2027 is reportedly the “best case scenario” for a release, assuming everything goes according to plan.
Price remains a contentious point, but according to Corden, even Microsoft doesn’t currently have one in mind (mirroring what Valve is going through with the Steam Machine). Even if it does end up costly, the company is reportedly seeking separate OEMs with partners like Asus at different prices. Again, plans remain unknown, but it wouldn’t be surprising if there was an even more powerful Xbox variant than Microsoft’s base console.
Time will tell, as always. Depending on global events in the coming months, we’ll have to wait and see just what the company has in mind, especially with hardware revenue continuing to drop.
