Microsoft’s Xbox Handheld Plans Reportedly Shelved; Firm to Optimise Windows 11 Gaming Efficiency

Microsoft has paused the event of its Xbox handheld gaming console, in response to a report. Previously anticipated to reach as a part of the corporate’s subsequent technology of consoles, the native Xbox handheld has been placed on the back-burner. The Redmond firm is reportedly engaged on optimising Windows 11 for handheld consoles, in order that it’s on par with Valve’s SteamOS, which affords higher efficiency and battery effectivity. Other upcoming consoles, just like the Xbox-branded Asus machine (codenamed Project Kennan) are stated to be unaffected by Microsoft’s resolution.

Microsoft Shifts Focus to Windows 11 Amid Threat From SteamOS

Windows Central experiences that Microsoft’s inner Xbox handheld console has been shelved, which signifies that it won’t arrive in 2027, alongside Microsoft’s next-gen Xbox consoles. The first celebration handheld will not be the identical as different upcoming transportable consoles like Asus’ Project Kennan, which continues to be anticipated to reach later this 12 months.

The firm plans to work on optimising Windows 11 to run on handheld consoles, which implies that upcoming third celebration handhelds may arrive with a extra optimised model of Microsoft’s desktop working system. In our opinions of beforehand launched handhelds, we have discovered that a number of the largest points with Windows operating on these gadgets embrace poor battery life, navigation points, and software program updates.

Microsoft’s resolution to focus its efforts on Windows 11 for handhelds may need been spurred by the SteamOS’ growth past the Steam Deck. Earlier this 12 months, Lenovo unveiled the Legion Go S, which affords higher efficiency than the Steam Deck, and likewise runs on Valve’s working system. SteamOS can be anticipated to reach on related handheld gadgets sooner or later.

SteamOS-powered gadgets will not be Microsoft’s solely concern, with the Nintendo Switch 2 proper across the nook. The Japanese agency’s handheld is slated to reach in choose markets in June, and can compete with present transportable consoles.

The Redmond firm’s concentrate on optimising Windows 11 for handhelds may enhance the general expertise of utilizing these gadgets. Asus is anticipated to launch its Project Kennan console later in 2025, as per current experiences. The machine was not too long ago noticed in a list on the US FCC web site, giving us an excellent have a look at its design.

The report signifies that the first-party handheld from Microsoft may need been able to operating Xbox video games, and the corporate nonetheless plans to launch a local handheld. It’s at present unclear whether or not this machine will make its debut in 2027 or 2028, which is when the corporate’s next-gen consoles are anticipated to reach.