Ever since Xbox's next-gen Project Helix console was first announced, we've been wondering whether it'll be the only next-gen system with the "Xbox" branding attached to it, or whether additional devices might be revealed as well.

Today, Xbox boss Asha Sharma appeared to uncover this information for the first time, telling employees that Xbox Project Helix will be part of a "family" of next-gen devices, some of which will be manufactured by Microsoft and others by external partners. We'll apparently hear more about this "as plans develop".

Here's the transcribed quote that was shared by Windows Central:

"We are moving to a family of devices for Gen-10. There is not one device that fits all. We will certainly have a great console first, but we also know that many players will be on the go. There are some things that we are the best in the world to manufacture, and there are other things that will we partner on. So, we will be sharing more about that as our plans develop. The operating system is starting to look really good. We're very excited about this."

As you can see, Sharma specifically mentions that the team knows "many players will be on the go", potentially hinting at some kind of first-party handheld device, or perhaps another third-party system akin to the ROG Xbox Ally.

She does also mention that they'll "have a great console first" though, which suggests Project Helix itself will be the centrepiece of the next generation, and then other kinds of devices will be released around it.

We're also curious about her mention of "moving to a family of devices", suggesting that Xbox doesn't consider the Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X as being part of a "family" at present.

Let's wait and see what comes of this, but it's certainly intriguing that Xbox appears to have multiple forms of hardware in the pipeline for the years ahead. Fingers crossed it'll end up being a success for both the brand and the fans!

What do you think Sharma is referring to here? Let us know down in the comments section below.

[source windowscentral.com]