The allegations that Microsoft will step into the portable game market have been on the agenda for a long time. Finally, a news shared by Windows Central argues that the company is working on an Xbox -branded hand console. However, the remarkable point is that the device will not be produced directly by Microsoft. Instead, it will be developed by cooperating with a PC manufacturer in game equipment. News claims that the device can be officially announced in 2025.
It is stated that the code name of the device is “Keenan ve and will carry Xbox -specific design elements. It is also said that an official Xbox guide key will be on the device and the operating system will be Windows 11. Nowadays, existing Windows -based portable devices, the desktop operating system with the controller is not fully suitable for the use of some difficulties. For this reason, the Xbox Hand console is expected to offer a special launch or an optimized interface for portable devices to improve the user experience. One of the advantages of Steam Deck’s operating system, Steamos, is that users can run their games directly without the need for a desktop environment. Microsoft is expected to adopt a similar approach and develop solutions that will make Windows more practical in hand consoles.
At the CES 2025 event, AMD and Lenovo’s “Future of Hand Consoles” session were hosted by Microsoft’s portable game plans. Jason Ronald, Vice President of Microsoft’s “Future Generation”, said the company aims to bring together Xbox and Windows experience on portable devices. He also stated that Windows has been done to provide a more console -like experience on portable devices. Ronald, “This year we will share more details in this year,” he signaled that the explanations about new projects will continue.
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer also confirmed that the company has previously been working on some prototypes on portable gaming devices. However, when we look at the current developments, it is understood that Microsoft follows the strategy of making Windows more suitable for portable devices instead of producing a direct portable console. The way Valve watched with Steam Deck can also be an attractive model for Microsoft. The company can offer an optimized Windows version that supports portable game devices, allowing different manufacturers to develop their own Xbox -compatible hand consoles.
Microsoft can also produce an Xbox hand console he developed
However, the possibility of producing a hand console that Microsoft has completely developed in the following years is still on the table. According to Windows Central, until 2027, the successor of the Xbox Series X, new generation internet connected controllers and an official Xbox hand console can be launched. Although the company’s approach in the portable gaming market changes over time, Microsoft’s interest and investments in this field seem to continue.