Xbox Reportedly Launching Next-Gen Console With Zen 5 CPU in 2026

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Abdullah Waseem

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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Reports about a new Xbox console flooded the internet earlier this week. The leak came after Jeff Grubb discussed another source’s report, but the leaker was foggy on whether it would be a pro console or an entirely new generation.

Adding to the rumors, a new report states Microsoft is working on a new console that will arrive as soon as 2026.

Why it matters: Microsoft is reportedly looking to release the next-gen Xbox in 2026 to get a headstart over the PlayStation 6. This is the same strategy that worked for the gaming giant during the Xbox 360 generation.

Along with claiming that the next-gen Xbox releases before the PS6, RedGamingTech has made a few other points as well.

According to his sources, the console will be powered by a Zen 5 chip instead of the Zen 6. The Xbox Series S|X and PS5 currently utilize an eight-core Zen 2 CPU, but it has already begun to show limitations in the newest games.

Going with Zen 5 might make Microsoft’s next console weaker than the PS6. However, this may not be the worst decision since Xbox could counter with a more capable pro console revision later down the line.

Moreover, this will enable Xbox to keep the prices low. According to the source, Microsoft is looking to keep the price of the next Xbox lower than the PlayStation 6.

Interestingly, power and prices have not been the main issues for Xbox.

What the platform has seriously lacked for many years are big exclusive titles. If we stack up Xbox and PlayStation exclusives over the past few years, Sony has crushed the competition.

Still, if the next-gen Xbox indeed launches earlier than the PS6, Microsoft might be able to emulate the events from 2005.

The Xbox 360 used a similar approach, outselling the PS3 by a vast margin during the first few years. However, in this instance, various other factors were in Microsoft’s favor, including Sony’s somewhat overpriced and flawed third console.

Abdullah Waseem

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Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city’s aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity!

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