Leaks have claimed in the past that Microsoft’s next generation of gaming hardware could kick off earlier than some expect, with the next Xbox rumoured to be releasing by 2026. Interestingly, however, it seems like Microsoft’s next-gen plans are going to entail more than just a traditional home console.
As per a report published by Windows Central, similar to the Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft is planning to once again launch two pieces of Xbox hardware, but though one will be a traditional home console that will serve as a follow-up to the flagship Xbox Series X, the second device will be an Xbox handheld similar to Valve’s Steam Deck.
What that will mean for both of their specs remains to be seen – assuming, of course, that these are the plans that Microsoft sticks with – but given the increasing success that handheld gaming devices continue to see, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Microsoft taking its first steps in that market.
Earlier this year, a report claimed that Microsoft was prototyping an Xbox handheld. Read more on that through here.