The next Xbox is set to be a full Windows PC, but details on how Microsoft plans to make this a reality remain limited. Rumor has it we won’t see the next-gen console until late 2027 at the earliest. This aligns with news about Project Kennan, which has transitioned to the Xbox Ally.
This summer, Microsoft confirmed a long-term partnership with AMD, guaranteeing that the new Xbox will work seamlessly with current Xbox games. According to my sources, the upcoming Xbox will provide a refined interface, designed primarily for TV and controllers, while allowing users to install third-party apps like Steam and GOG.
For a preview, take a look at the Xbox Ally handheld from ASUS. It utilizes the new Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE), which simplifies the user interface by making Xbox the main interface, cutting out unnecessary Windows tasks to enhance performance and navigation.
However, early feedback suggests that while the Xbox Ally shows promise, it still has a long way to go. Users moving from the polished Xbox Series X|S might find the transition jarring if Microsoft doesn’t ensure a smooth, engaging experience.
Recently, a Windows Update caused issues with the Xbox Ally, blocking key functionality and resulting in user frustration. This incident raised questions about whether the next-gen Xbox might face similar problems. Some users are looking towards alternatives, like Linux, as Windows struggles with updates and privacy issues that hinder performance.
Despite frustrations, Windows remains a dominant platform for gamers. Surveys indicate that a majority of gamers still prefer Windows for its vast game library, yet many express a need for improvements. According to a recent survey by PC Gamer, 78% of PC gamers feel that Windows updates disrupt their gaming experience.
Competitors like SteamOS are gaining traction among gamers disenchanted with Windows’ frequent issues. With Microsoft recently acquiring high-profile games like Call of Duty, the company has renewed motivation to improve the Windows gaming experience and retain users.
The path forward for Windows and Xbox is crucial. Historical shifts, such as the transition from Windows being primarily a productivity tool to a gaming-focused platform, emphasize the need for an integrated strategy between both divisions. Microsoft must focus not just on gaming revenue but also on providing a stable, user-friendly environment that appeals to gamers in a console setting.
For casual users, the hallmark of console gaming has always been simplicity. The challenge for Microsoft now is delivering a seamless, intuitive experience in time for the next console’s launch. Will they succeed in marrying console ease of use with Windows’ extensive capabilities? Only time will tell.
