Microsoft is officially exploring the handheld gaming market. In an interview with Bloomberg, Xbox boss Phil Spencer confirmed that the company plans to release a handheld Xbox console. However, the device is still years away from hitting the market.
While Microsoft has made strides with consoles and cloud gaming, this move marks a new direction. “Our expectation is that we would do something” in handheld gaming, Spencer stated. Yet, he emphasized, the device won’t be available anytime soon.
Microsoft’s Handheld Vision: Still in Early Stages
According to Spencer, Microsoft’s team is currently working on prototypes. They’re researching the handheld gaming market to understand what players want and need. Spencer mentioned that the Xbox team is “learning from the market” to ensure the new device aligns with Microsoft’s vision.
In the short term, Microsoft plans to focus on enhancing the Xbox app. By doing so, the company aims to improve its performance on existing handheld devices. Spencer explained, “Longer term, I love us building devices. I think our team could do some real innovative work, but we want to be informed by learning and what’s happening now.”
A Growing Interest in the Handheld Console Market
Phil Spencer has long expressed interest in handheld gaming. Following the 2024 Xbox Games Showcase, he hinted at the potential for Xbox hardware that caters to handheld gamers. Spencer expressed enthusiasm, saying, “The future for us in hardware is pretty awesome. The work that the team is doing around different form factors, different ways to play—I’m incredibly excited.”
When asked about what form this new device could take, Spencer shared some insights. He emphasized that the ability to play games locally on a handheld is “really important,” setting it apart from cloud-only devices.
What Could an Xbox Handheld Offer?
In previous interviews, Spencer has outlined features that would “feel like an Xbox” in a handheld format. He envisions a device where players can access their full game libraries with saved progress. Spencer also emphasized flexibility in gaming, noting that the device should allow players to enjoy games when they otherwise couldn’t.
Rumors of a potential Xbox handheld have circulated since last fall. A set of leaked Microsoft documents hinted at a dedicated handheld device, sparking curiosity among fans. However, Spencer clarified that these leaks were outdated and didn’t reflect Microsoft’s current direction.
What’s Next for Microsoft and Xbox Hardware?
While a handheld Xbox console is still in the early stages, Microsoft is working on a multi-year roadmap for its hardware division. In February, the company announced plans for a next-generation Xbox console, expected to release in the coming years. Spencer’s recent comments suggest that Microsoft’s vision for gaming includes exploring new ways to play, and a handheld console could be part of that future.
For now, Microsoft will continue focusing on cloud gaming and improving the Xbox app’s functionality on current handheld devices. But with the team’s focus on long-term innovation, an Xbox handheld could offer a fresh take on portable gaming when it finally arrives.
As handheld gaming gains popularity, Microsoft’s decision to enter this market could reshape how and where people play Xbox games. Fans eager to experience Xbox on the go will need to be patient, but it’s clear that exciting developments are on the horizon.
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