Microsoft closing in on Nintendo? The portable Xbox may arrive sooner than expected

Gaming
Microsoft closing in on Nintendo? The portable Xbox may arrive sooner than expected

Microsoft plans to launch its first portable console as early as 2025, while also developing the next generation of the Xbox Series X|S, expected in 2027. The company aims to enter the portable console market, especially with the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2 this year.

According to information from Windows Central, Microsoft is indeed working on a handheld console. The company is collaborating with a major name in PC gaming, potentially ASUS, Lenovo, MSI, or Razer, to develop a portable console under Windows, codenamed "Keenan." Expected in 2025, it features design elements reminiscent of Microsoft consoles, including the iconic Xbox controller guide button.

This device is expected to run a full version of Windows 11, providing direct access to the Microsoft Store, PC Game Pass, and third-party platforms like Steam. Furthermore, Microsoft aims to leverage Xbox Game Bar widgets to control various settings such as power consumption and fan speed.