New Xbox as a Windows PC
The upcoming Xbox is set to function as a complete Windows PC, but details on how Microsoft plans to achieve this remain unclear.
Release Timeline
According to recent updates, the next Xbox is expected to be released no sooner than late 2027. Information about this next-generation console was shared alongside details about Project Kennan, which has now been rebranded as Xbox Ally.
Partnership and Compatibility
This past summer, Microsoft confirmed its commitment to first-party Xbox hardware and announced a multi-year partnership with AMD, emphasizing compatibility with the existing Xbox console library. Sources indicate that the new Xbox will operate primarily as a Windows PC while maintaining a user-friendly interface optimized for TVs and controllers, and it will allow for the installation and usage of third-party platforms like Steam and GOG.
Early Insights from Xbox Ally
For an initial glimpse of how this new system might operate, the Xbox Ally handheld from ASUS serves as a prototype. Utilizing the Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE) mode, this device offers a sneak preview of the forthcoming Xbox’s functionality.
Challenges and Expectations
Despite its promise, the FSE is not without flaws. Users upgrading from the stable and polished Xbox Series X|S may find the new interface lacking if Microsoft doesn’t carefully balance the user experience. Frequent updates can disrupt functionality, as evidenced by a recent Windows update that caused issues with the Xbox Ally.
Concerns About Windows Experience
While Windows offers robust gaming capabilities, it also struggles with user experience and stability, particularly for casual users. The Xbox ecosystem, which relies heavily on a seamless experience, must ensure that performance remains consistent across devices.
Final Thoughts
With gaming being a significant strength of Windows, Microsoft is motivated to refine its approach. Given the gaming landscape’s ongoing evolution and the competition from platforms like SteamOS, it’s crucial for Microsoft to enhance the user experience in time for the next-gen Xbox’s release. The transition to a more unified Windows gaming interface is essential but poses challenges that must be addressed.
