Microsoft’s Plan to Combine the Best of Xbox and Windows in a Handheld Console

Microsoft is gearing up to make a splash in the handheld gaming market, drawing upon its strong foundations in both Xbox and Windows to create a compelling mobile experience. As the gaming world buzzes with excitement over the anticipated arrival of the Switch 2, the rising popularity of handheld PCs, and Sony unveiling the PlayStation Portal, portable gaming devices are undoubtedly stealing the spotlight. Xbox is eager to join the fray, eyeing this as a golden opportunity to enhance Windows as a platform for gaming on the go.

Though Xbox services are already accessible on portable devices such as the Razer Edge and Logitech G Cloud, Microsoft has yet to launch its own handheld device. That’s about to change. Phil Spencer, the head of Microsoft Gaming, has officially confirmed that Xbox is in the development phase of its handheld console. While specific details remain under wraps, the company is fully committed to revolutionizing mobile gaming experiences.

Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of Next Generation, recently shared some insights with The Verge. He hinted that more revelations about Xbox’s portable venture could emerge later this year, possibly marking the official announcement of the much-anticipated handheld. Ronald emphasized the company’s intent to unify the best elements of Xbox and Windows, creating a seamless gaming experience. This approach is logical, especially considering how devices like the ROG Ally X highlight the challenges Windows faces on handheld platforms due to its complex navigation and troubleshooting requirements.

Ronald elaborated on Microsoft’s ambitions to make Windows a formidable gaming platform, flexible enough to adapt across various devices, including handhelds. He acknowledged the difficulty Windows has operating without traditional inputs like a mouse and keyboard, noting that its design isn’t currently optimized for joystick use, which can hamper the portable PC experience. Inspired by the robust Xbox console operating system, Microsoft aims to bridge this gap, mirroring earlier statements by Phil Spencer. He, too, envisioned handheld PCs offering an Xbox-like consistency in gameplay.

By honing in on functionality, Microsoft hopes to carve out a distinct niche in the portable gaming sphere, potentially through a revamped operating system for mobile devices or a proprietary handheld console. The experience-focused strategy could greatly benefit iconic Microsoft franchises, such as Halo, which currently struggle with technical issues on platforms like the Steam Deck. Should Microsoft succeed in making portable PCs run flagship titles like Halo as smoothly as a traditional Xbox, it would mark a significant achievement. While the specifics of Microsoft’s plans remain speculative, fans can expect more concrete information to emerge later this year.