Microsoft Confirms Cloud Game Streaming Device “Keystone”

Among Microsoft’s various efforts to push cloud gaming, like Game Pass titles that support cloud streaming and supporting Xbox One and PC, it has been working on a device called Keystone. In a new report, Jez Corden of Windows Central confirmed that Keystone is an HDMI streaming device that can run Game Pass and stream games from the cloud.

These titles could be played on TVs, providing a low-cost solution to Xbox gaming (much like Xbox boss Phil Spencer discussed in 2020). As enticing as it sounds, a Microsoft spokesperson revealed to Corden that the company is pivoting away from the device’s current iteration.

“Our vision for Xbox Cloud Gaming is unwavering, our goal is to enable people to play the games they want, on the devices they want, anywhere they want. As announced last year, we’ve been working on a game-streaming device, codename Keystone, that could be connected to any TV or monitor without the need for a console.

“As part of any technical journey, we are constantly evaluating our efforts, reviewing our learnings, and ensuring we are bringing value to our customers. We have decided to pivot away from the current iteration of the Keystone device. We will take our learnings and refocus our efforts on a new approach that will allow us to deliver Xbox Cloud Gaming to more players around the world in the future.”

Corden believes that Keystone has been in the works for a couple of years now. While it could get a proper reveal in the future, you shouldn’t expect to see it at the upcoming Xbox and Bethesda Games Showcase on June 12th. Stay tuned for further updates in the coming months.