Microsoft had been embroiled in a legal dispute with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) concerning the $68.7 billion acquisition deal with Activision Blizzard. However, recent developments have brought to light a significant leak disclosing numerous key details about Microsoft’s future strategies for the Xbox console, upcoming exclusive games, a fresh controller design, and more. Here’s the scoop on what we’ve learned so far:
Upcoming Xbox Console for 2028 Set to Compete with PlayStation 6
The leaked documents provide some insight into Microsoft’s plans for its next-generation Xbox console. While the specific name remains unknown due to Microsoft’s unconventional naming conventions, it’s intended to compete with Sony’s forthcoming PlayStation 6 (PS6), details of which are currently scarce. These leaked documents, reportedly from May 2022, primarily outline Microsoft’s intentions for the new and advanced Xbox Series X/S console; however, they don’t definitively confirm any finalized specifications.
The leaked information points to a release date in 2028, which is nearly five years from now. Naturally, this extended timeline implies that numerous internal specifications may undergo changes before the final product. Nevertheless, here’s a glimpse of the planned features and specifications for the upcoming Xbox console, positioned as a rival to the PS6:
- AMD Zen 6 processor featuring a hybrid big and little CPU-core design
- Navi 5 graphics chip, possibly co-designed with AMD
- New NPU Chip dedicated to programmable ML silicon for targeted workloads
- Enhanced next-generation DirectX Ray Tracing Support featuring Dynamic Global Illumination
- Machine learning-based Super Resolution technologies, likely comparable to AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution
2024 Plans Include Refreshed Xbox Series X & Series S Consoles
Upcoming Xbox consoles are on the horizon, including a refreshed Xbox Series X and Series S. These new models will serve as successors, with the refreshed Series X poised to compete with the upcoming Sony PS5 Pro (details covered here). The leaked information indicates that the Xbox Series X successor, codenamed Brooklin, will be the most powerful Xbox console yet.
Therefore, for the launch timeline, leaked documents suggest that the announcement will take place in the summer of next year, 2024. According to leaked information, Microsoft is considering launching the refreshed Xbox Series X in October 2024 and the Series S in August of the same year. Here are the anticipated features and specifications of the upcoming 2024 Xbox Series X refresh console:
- Introduces 4K Gen 9 Console Gaming
- Features a 6nm chip for enhanced efficiency
- All-digital console with no disc support
- Supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2
- Includes a USB-C Port with power delivery support
- Requires 15% lower PSU (power supply) requirements
Regarding the Xbox Series S (code-named Ellewood), leaked details highlight its support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, coupled with increased internal storage of 1TB. This model is set to provide Gen 9 console gaming while also reducing power consumption. Additionally, both consoles are expected to launch alongside an all-new, more immersive controller, as revealed in the leak. Speaking of the price, the leak indicates that the cost will remain consistent for both the new Series X and Series S refresh consoles at $299 and $499, respectively.
New Xbox ‘Sebile’ Controller Leaked Details
Leaked documents indicate that the upcoming next-gen Xbox consoles, set for release in 2024, will introduce the new Xbox controller known as Sebile. This controller is equipped with Bluetooth 5.2 and a Direct-To-Cloud connection, likely enabling seamless connectivity to cloud gaming servers. This advancement is expected to significantly reduce input lag and enhance overall controller response time, bridging the gap between cloud gaming and native gameplay experiences.
However, the new Xbox Sebile controller isn’t solely focused on cloud gaming improvements. Microsoft has planned additional advancements that cater to a wider audience. Similar to the PlayStation DualSense controller’s haptics, the new Xbox controller features Precision Haptic feedback technology.
Additionally, the leaks mention VCA haptics integrated into the controller, doubling as a speaker. This functionality resembles the current DualSense feature, enhancing immersion by allowing players to hear in-game audio, such as web sounds from Spiderman’s shooters. The leaks also suggest that the Xbox Controller will feature better durability and reliability with modular thumbsticks. Moreover, the controller will include a Lift to Wake feature, designed to conveniently initiate the Xbox console with the new controller.
While the leaked documents may have been taken down, the nature of the internet makes it challenging to completely erase such information. It’s bound to be fascinating to witness how game developers leverage these new features.
Looking ahead, the next-gen Xbox consoles seem poised to offer formidable competition to Sony. This is particularly noteworthy given the affordability of the Series S, making it one of the most budget-friendly current-gen consoles. What are your thoughts on the impending consoles and controller? Let us know in the comments below.
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