Next-Gen Xbox Arrives in 2027, Handheld Launches in 2025

A recent report reveals Microsoft's plans for the future of Xbox hardware, highlighting a new generation Xbox console set to launch in 2027 along with an Xbox-branded handheld device targeting a late 2025 release. Windows Central indicates that this upcoming Xbox console aims to offer a premium experience and will function more like a personal computer, supporting major third-party storefronts such as Steam and Epic Games Store. Additionally, continued backwards compatibility is anticipated. Microsoft has previously expressed the need for substantial technological advancements in its next-gen hardware, especially amidst current competitive pressures in the gaming industry. Xbox's struggle in the ongoing console war against competitors like PlayStation 5 and the imminent arrival of Nintendo's Switch 2 has led to speculation about the future viability of consoles. However, the latest developments suggest a commitment to evolving the Xbox brand.

The next-gen Xbox is set to launch in 2027, while the Xbox-branded gaming handheld is expected to be released in late 2025.

The Xbox Series X, released in 2020, was Microsoft's response to the growing market of advanced gaming consoles. Since its launch, it has focused on offering powerful hardware and an extensive library of games, though its impact has been challenged by the PlayStation 5's popularity and the evolving landscape of gaming platforms, including the rise of cloud gaming. With the upcoming console releases, Microsoft aims to reclaim its position and adapt to the shifting dynamics in the gaming industry.