Microsoft reportedly has plans set in motion to release its next Xbox in 2027. Along with the new console, there might be another handheld with this one being a proper Xbox handheld. What might happen is that the handheld is a lower-powered console, like the Xbox Series S, and the new home console will be more like the Xbox Series X.

If this second handheld system happens, we'd expect it to be more like a 'traditional' Xbox console that supports console games. If the above 2025 system launches and Microsoft continues to work on compatibility for a few years, the team could potentially get existing Xbox console games running on this new device.

It's been an open secret for years now that Xbox has been working on a handheld gaming device – as far back as a year ago, Phil Spencer, Microsoft Gaming's CEO, wouldn't stop cryptically liking posts on X about the topic.

I play most of my games on an Xbox plugged into a 65-inch OLED TV in the living room. Despite this comfy setup, I caved and finally bought a Steam Deck in late 2024, and I’m so happy that I’ve started padding my neglected Steam library once again.

A handheld device with the Xbox name might be releasing this year, but it just doesn't sound like something with the power to shake up the market.