- Many rumors are surfacing on the internet that Xbox is exiting the console market.
- A new leak attempts to debunk these rumors, stating that a new console is already planned for 2026.
- This leak states two consoles will launch in 2026.
Xbox is currently facing the most confusing period in recent years. Rumors suggest the gaming giant might be completely vanishing from the console market as Microsoft believes its hardware is dead.
Xbox’s exit from the console market could lead to disastrous outcomes, but another rumor states this is not the case. Following past reports of a next-generation Xbox console in 2026, another leaker states Microsoft will launch two Xbox hardware projects in 2026.
Why it matters: Microsoft has been known to be innovative and experimental with its hardware projects. The latest leak states that this theme is not going away for the next launch.
(Rumor) According to @Middleagegamegy the Next-Gen Xbox is on track for 2026 and will have two SKU's, a traditional powerful high-end console and a Switch-like dockable handheld.
– The switch-like console will be the cheaper SKU and will be developed by the Surface team.
– The… pic.twitter.com/wBwfqVIqEW— Alan Feely (@IdleSlothVGT) February 6, 2024
This report comes from Middleagegamegy, a popular Xbox personality and podcaster. Claiming to have inside sources, he states that Microsoft’s next-generation strategy revolves around two console releases like the current generation.
However, in 2026, Xbox will reportedly release a hybrid handheld like the Nintendo Switch alongside a more traditional console. The handheld is expected to ship with a dock, letting players use it with a monitor or TV.
According to Middleagegamegy, this handheld will be created by the Microsoft Surface team. Furthermore, he revealed that it will play Xbox games natively using built-in controls and a touch screen.
All in all, it appears Xbox is attempting to experiment with a hybrid console very similar to the Nintendo Switch.
Previously, Xbox released two consoles targeting different segments of the market. One was made for gamers on a budget, while the other offered a high-end experience in the most demanding games.
If the leak is to be believed, the strategy for the next generation will be similar, with the handheld becoming the Xbox Series S equivalent.
It was previously revealed that Xbox is working on multiple hardware projects for the future. Following these rumors, it does not seem likely for Microsoft to leave the hardware industry.
Additionally, reports claim PlayStation is working on a PS Vita successor of its own. Therefore, Sony and Microsoft may be gearing up to face each other in a completely different gaming environment during the next generation.
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