Microsoft has firmly stated its commitment to the future of Xbox console hardware, denying recent rumors that suggested otherwise. This follows a tumultuous week for the company, which included a significant price hike for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, now standing at $29.99 per month. The backlash stemmed from the belief that more gamers would opt for subscription access instead of purchasing titles like Call of Duty, leading to a reported loss of $300 million in sales. Despite challenges, Microsoft maintains that it is actively investing in next-generation consoles and has partnered with AMD to ensure cutting-edge performance and compatibility with existing Xbox games.

Is Microsoft planning on releasing a handheld Xbox console?

While Xbox boss Phil Spencer has expressed interest in the idea of a first-party handheld device, reports indicate that such plans have been deprioritized for now. Nevertheless, Microsoft continues to focus on enhancing its console lineup and gaming experiences.

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As a historical context, the Xbox brand has undergone significant transformations since its inception in 2001. Originally competing with PlayStation and Nintendo, Xbox has established a strong foothold in the gaming community, launching several successful console generations. The upcoming release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 as a day-one Game Pass title illustrates Microsoft's shift towards a subscription model, reflecting broader industry trends where physical sales are increasingly challenged by digital accessibility and subscription services.