{
  "id": 15786162,
  "title": "Microsoft reportedly plans Xbox handheld in 2027, next-gen console in 2028",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/20/microsoft-reportedly-plans-xbox-handheld-in-2027-next-gen-console-in",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-20T18:45:39.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Verge",
    "slug": "the-verge",
    "url": "https://www.theverge.com/news/1014666/xbox-project-helix-launch-2028-rumor"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Microsoft is reportedly set to introduce an Xbox handheld device in the holiday season of 2027, followed by a next-gen console in 2028, according to a new report from Fortune. The handheld device's price could range from $1,200 to $1,800 if Microsoft does not subsidize it. The next-gen console, codenamed Project Helix, is also expected to be priced within the same range, barring any subsidies.\n\nThe handheld device's manufacturer has not been confirmed, with the possibility of it being produced by a company like Asus or by Microsoft itself. Xbox has previously collaborated with Asus to create Xbox Ally devices, which run a modified version of Windows 11 with Xbox mode enabled.\n\nXbox CEO Asha Sharma has referred to Project Helix as a \"family of devices,\" indicating that Microsoft's next Xbox console might encompass multiple hardware pieces. This aligns with Microsoft and AMD's strategic multi-year partnership, aimed at developing a portfolio of devices, including the next-generation console, which will utilize AMD's latest chips.\n\nMicrosoft's Xbox and Windows teams reportedly had disagreements over the software that would power the next-gen Xbox. However, Xbox now appears to be in control of the software direction for Project Helix. Additionally, rumors suggest that Microsoft is considering significant changes to Xbox Game Pass, such as introducing tiers with or without ads, along with add-ons for console-only games, cloud gaming, and multiplayer experiences. These changes could make Game Pass more flexible, though the impact on day one games and the overall price remains unclear.\n\nUnder Sharma's leadership as Xbox CEO, she reversed Game Pass price hikes, explaining that the subscription service had become too expensive for players. Furthermore, Sharma plans to initiate new rounds of layoffs this month, with more cuts set to occur in November and January.",
  "summary": "Microsoft is reportedly planning to launch an Xbox \"next-generation handheld device\" for the holiday season of 2027. The Xbox next-gen console, codename Project Helix, would then launch in the holidays of 2028, according to a new report from Fortune. The report doesn't make it clear whether the handheld would be made by a manufacturer like […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}