Gamers, buckle up. A fresh Reddit post from r/GamingLeaksAndRumours points to Windows Central’s latest scoop on Xbox’s next-gen hardware. We’re talking full Windows 11 under the hood, a console-style interface, first-party handhelds, and partner consoles from ASUS and others. Launch? 2027 at best. This builds on years of hints from Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond about blurring PC and console lines.
.jpg "Next-Gen Xbox Runs Full Windows 11: Handhelds, OEMs & 2027 Launch Leaks Explained 1")
Core Features Leaked
The next Xbox—successor to Series X—runs complete Windows 11. Default view is a streamlined Xbox UI, optimized for gaming by killing background junk. Switch to desktop mode, and it’s a PC: launch Steam, Battle.net, Epic, even PlayStation PC ports like God of War.
No more multiplayer paywalls. Xbox Live Gold is history; Game Pass handles online play. Backward compatibility covers your entire Series X/S library. Think ROG Xbox Ally but evolved—Microsoft’s own Steam Deck rival.
Launch and Hardware Plans
2027 is the ‘best case scenario,’ per sources. AMD CEO confirmed semi-custom chips are progressing. Microsoft wants OEMs involved: premium from ASUS, budget options from others. No mid-gen refresh; full next-gen push.
- High-end Series X successor: Powerful, TV-focused.
- First-party handheld: Portable Xbox experience.
- OEM variants: Cheaper or beefier builds.
- Controllers: New designs incoming.
Polygon and GameSpot echo this: hybrid device plays everything, from Xbox exclusives to Steam hits. Sarah Bond said it last year—no single store lock-in.
Why This Shift?
Xbox sales lag PS5; handhelds like Ally show demand. Full Windows cuts R&D costs, leverages PC ecosystem. Play Steam? Why pay for Xbox multiplayer? Free online seals the deal.
| Feature | Current Xbox | Next-Gen Rumor |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Custom | Full Windows 11 |
| Multiplayer | Game Pass required | Free |
| Stores | Xbox only | Steam, Epic, etc. |
| Launch | – | 2027 best case |
Gamer Buzz and Doubts
Reddit’s hyped but cautious. ‘Premium Steam Machine’ vibes excite PC folks; console purists worry about bloat. FTC leaks hinted at this hybrid plan. Risks? If handhelds flop or OEMs dilute brand, Xbox hardware could fade.
Upside: Play anywhere, full library preserved. Matches Bond’s ‘Xbox everywhere’ vision.
FAQs
1. Does next Xbox play Steam games?
Yes, in Windows mode—full PC access.
2. Launch year confirmed?
2027 optimistic; no hard date.
3. Backward compatibility?
Entire Xbox library supported.
4. Handheld from Microsoft?
Yes, plus OEM like ASUS ROG.
5. Free multiplayer everywhere?
No paywall planned.
6. Price expectations?
Premium tier; OEMs for budgets.
7. PS games on it?
PC ports via Steam, yes.
Final Thoughts
Xbox is going all-in on hybrid gaming. Windows 11 powers a console that thinks it’s a PC. Exciting for multi-platform players, game-changer or gimmick? Windows Central’s track record is solid—watch this space. Your Series X investment safe; future looks flexible. Thoughts?