Microsoft’s focus on xCloud and streaming video games to any device is going to be a huge part of their business strategy going forward, even with the reveal of Xbox Scarlett. For a while, reports were stating that the Xbox Scarlett would release with multiple SKUs, and that Microsoft would also be releasing a purely streaming box which would be a cheap, low-latency alternative for those who don’t want to pay a high price for next gen games and can connect to xCloud directly.
Recently, more reports emerged that Microsoft had dropped the strategy for having multiple Xbox Scarlett SKUs, but now, known Xbox insider Brad Sams, who originally broke the news that the Scarlett would have multiple SKUs, and then that Microsoft were dropping that strategy, is reporting that the streaming box might be back in play.
In a video uploaded by Sams, he says that since Microsoft isn’t working on a cheaper Xbox Scarlett SKU anymore (codenamed Lockhart), they’re now focusing on an xCloud-focused streaming-only box, which will be a low-tech, low-latency alternative for consumers to connect directly to xCloud and play games through it.
Though it won’t exactly be a set top box or something along those lines, it’s described as having “very little power”, and meant specifically for providing a better experience connecting to xCloud rather than what, say, a smart TV would do. According to the report, it’s also going to be a very cheap purchase, between $60 to $100.
Sams also mentions that the details on this are murky for now, so as things stand, take it with a pinch of salt. Plans could always change, especially with next gen over a year away right now, but this would definitely fall in line with the direction Microsoft have been heading in for a while now. It also wouldn’t be the first time Microsoft have done an all-digital console. Take a look at the entire video below.