Xbox's Handheld Dream Temporarily Shelved

Exciting news is unfolding in the world of Xbox! While Microsoft has been working on an innovative handheld device alongside a successor to the Xbox Series X, which was scheduled for a 2027 launch, their focus has taken a new direction.

The Shift in Focus

Don't worry—it's not the ASUS collaboration device, known as 'Kennan,' that's being delayed. Instead, Microsoft's internal handheld project has been put on the back burner for now. Although there are various codenames for this mysterious device, the exact details remain under wraps.

Reports indicate that while Microsoft still has ambitions for a portable gaming device, they've opted to channel resources toward enhancing gaming performance on Windows 11. This shift is particularly aimed at supporting devices like Project Kennan.

Pressure From Competitors

With increasing competition from SteamOS—boasting superior gaming performance—Microsoft feels the urgency. Sources confirm that the tech giant continues to invest in its handheld technology but sees a valuable partner opportunity with third-party OEM handhelds in the short term.

Project Kennan is Gearing Up!

Project Kennan, built in partnership with ASUS, is on track for a late 2023 release. The hardware is nearly finalized and might debut with the cutting-edge AMD Z2 Extreme—final confirmation is still pending.

Enhancing the Xbox Experience

Microsoft aims to bridge the gap between Xbox and Windows gaming experiences. The ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go already run on standard Windows 11, showing signs of improvement, but much work lies ahead.

What’s the Future for Xbox Handhelds?

The exact nature of Microsoft's handheld remains uncertain. Speculation suggests it could have offered a full-fledged Xbox gaming experience. However, for now, the priority is on solidifying partnerships like that with Kennan.

Investing in Cloud Gaming

Additionally, Microsoft is testing next-gen cloud gaming systems at their Redmond headquarters. This new platform aims to rival NVIDIA's GeForce Now in terms of performance, as they recognize the shifting landscape of gaming.

The Battle for Handheld Dominance

With competitors like SteamOS emerging, Microsoft is well aware of the ticking clock. Gamers now have the option to install SteamOS on devices like the Legion Go and ROG Ally, raising questions about Windows' gaming stronghold.

Upcoming Xbox Showcase

Mark your calendars for June 8, 2025! Microsoft's Xbox Showcase will unveil the latest titles in their extensive portfolio. While they've been excelling in content with Xbox Game Pass, the future of their hardware remains somewhat nebulous. The potential is immense, but the direction from corporate will be critical.