Microsoft Eyes Future of Handheld Gaming with Ambitious Xbox Device Plans
Microsoft has revealed intentions to develop an Xbox handheld device, although it is expected to be several years before it actually becomes available to consumers. During a conversation with Bloomberg, the head of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, emphasized the company's aspiration to explore options in the handheld gaming sector, indicating that a launch is still a few years away. He mentioned that the team is currently experimenting with prototypes while gathering insights from the market to shape their vision for this new device.
In the immediate future, Microsoft plans to enhance the Xbox application to improve compatibility with current handheld gaming devices. Spencer expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to innovate in device development, stating the importance of staying informed about market trends. Spencer has openly shared his interest in entering the handheld console arena with Xbox hardware and indicated a commitment to this goal during a conversation with IGN after the 2024 Xbox Games Showcase.
He articulated excitement regarding future hardware endeavors, highlighting the team's work on various form factors and gameplay experiences. When questioned about whether the envisioned Xbox handheld would be a standalone gaming platform, akin to the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, or a cloud-integrated device, Spencer underscored the significance of local gaming capabilities.
In a prior interview with Polygon, Spencer discussed critical features that would ensure a handheld device reflects the Xbox experience. He raised questions about how to attract new gamers and enable playability at times when gamers could not access consoles previously. Speculation around the Xbox handheld intensified following the circulation of leaked Microsoft documents last fall that hinted at such plans.
Nevertheless, Spencer later clarified that those details were no longer current. Microsoft has indicated that new hardware is on the horizon, unveiling a multi-year roadmap in February that outlines a next-generation Xbox console among their future projects.
