We've been hearing quite a lot about the next Xbox console lately, and now Windows Central is back with another fresh report on what they've been learning behind the scenes — including details on its potential 2027 release window.
Earlier this week, AMD CEO Lisa Su made headlines when it was suggested that the next Xbox console could be ready to launch in 2027, and Windows Central says this is a "best case scenario" release year for the system, but the Xbox team aren't "forcing themselves to adhere to a specific hard cut-off point".
"I'm told Microsoft insiders were a little taken off guard by Lisa Su's comments on the Gen 10 Xbox's timeline."
"Microsoft hasn't fully internally committed to a hard 2027 launch window for the next-gen Xbox platform, since so much of it hinges on improvements to Windows 11 and other factors. Microsoft's Windows and Xbox teams are collaborating harder than ever to get the OS into shape for a polished, console-like experience on Xbox."
In terms of cost, its said that Microsoft still remains unsure on the next Xbox console's price tag for all sorts of reasons, including "global tariffs, component costs, geopolitics, and supply issues". It's speculated that it might be "a more premium experience" that "some expect" to cost around $1,000, but even if that happens, there's a mention that Xbox Series players are unlikely to be "cut off and priced out", as support for the X and S will likely continue for plenty of time to come.
Interestingly, there's a suggestion that Microsoft is working with the likes of ASUS and other companies to build a range of next-gen hardware "options" across different price points, similar to what happened with the ASUS ROG Ally and ASUS ROG Ally X.
There's a lot more in the report if you want to go and read it for yourself, but we've heard some of the details before — such as how the new Xbox system will apparently offer full Windows 11 support along with the ability to run native Xbox console games too. It's described as the most "ambitious" hardware plan in Xbox history!