Microsoft is making significant strides in the development of its next-generation Xbox platform, with a focus on unifying its Windows and Xbox ecosystems. Recent reports have stirred excitement around the potential launch of a handheld gaming device, codenamed Project Kennan, which is currently in the prototype phase and being developed in collaboration with Asus. Although some headlines suggest a release as early as this year, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has indicated that the handheld is still a few years away from hitting the market.
According to sources familiar with the company’s strategy, the overarching goal for Microsoft’s Xbox platform is to create a seamless integration between Xbox and Windows, ultimately leading to a universal library of games accessible across devices. Jason Ronald, Vice President of Xbox gaming devices and ecosystem, has emphasized that the company is working to merge the best features of both platforms, with more substantial changes expected to roll out by 2025.
Project Kennan, as it is now correctly referred to, aims to provide users with a handheld experience powered by Windows, yet designed to resemble the familiar Xbox interface. This initiative is part of a broader strategy, codenamed Project Bayside, which seeks to standardize the Xbox user experience across various devices. The integration of these projects is anticipated to enhance the accessibility of Xbox titles within the Windows ecosystem.
Furthermore, Microsoft is exploring ways to streamline the development process for game creators, enabling them to build titles that can operate seamlessly across handhelds, consoles, and PCs. This raises intriguing possibilities about the future of Xbox gaming on portable devices, especially considering Microsoft’s history with emulation and community-driven efforts to run Xbox titles on PC.
In early 2024, Xbox president Sarah Bond established a dedicated team focused on game preservation and compatibility, which hints at Microsoft’s commitment to maintaining its digital libraries while navigating licensing challenges. This initiative aligns with the anticipated evolution of Xbox consoles, as the company prepares for a “premium successor” to the Xbox Series X, projected for release in 2027.
The competitive landscape is also shifting, with Valve’s SteamOS gaining traction among handheld device manufacturers. Microsoft recognizes the urgency of enhancing the Windows experience on portable gaming devices, particularly in light of recent successes from competitors like the Steam Deck. As the demand for gaming PCs and console-like devices continues to grow, Microsoft’s ability to adapt its next-gen Xbox platform to a more PC-like architecture could prove pivotal in maintaining its market position.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits further developments, Microsoft is set to host a 50th anniversary event in April, where updates on its Copilot AI and other innovations will be shared. This event promises to provide insights into the company’s future direction, particularly regarding the integration of AI technologies across its platforms.
- Microsoft is holding a 50th anniversary and Copilot event in April. The special event will take place on April 4th and feature leaders from the company’s past and present, alongside announcements from Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman.
- Copilot gets a press-to-talk hotkey on Windows. A new keyboard shortcut for voice interactions with Copilot is being rolled out, allowing users to engage with the AI assistant more easily.
- Microsoft is replacing Remote Desktop with its new Windows app. Support for the Remote Desktop app will end on May 27th, prompting users to transition to the new Windows app for connecting to various Microsoft services.
- Forza Horizon 5 will require a Microsoft account on PS5. Players will need to link their Microsoft accounts to access online features, although save syncing between Xbox and PS5 versions will not be possible.
- Last week’s Xbox Alpha update reset consoles. A rare bug caused consoles to revert to factory settings, although most users retained their game installations.
- A Windows 11 update is causing USB printers to print gibberish. Microsoft acknowledged issues with recent updates affecting printer functionality and is working on a fix.
- Microsoft Edge on Android is getting six new extensions. New additions to Edge Canary builds enhance the browser’s functionality on mobile devices.
- Microsoft reportedly is dropping some CoreWeave services ahead of a billion IPO. The company has withdrawn from certain contracts with CoreWeave due to delivery issues, although CoreWeave maintains that all commitments remain intact.
- Copilot is now integrated into GroupMe. The messaging app will utilize Copilot to assist users in crafting responses and creating playlists.
