Microsoft’s gaming chief, Phil Spencer, has officially confirmed that the company is planning to release an Xbox handheld device—but it’s still a few years away from hitting the market. In an interview with Bloomberg, Spencer shared exciting insights into the company’s vision for portable gaming.
The Vision: A Handheld Xbox, but Not Yet
While Spencer made it clear that an Xbox handheld is on the horizon, it won’t be arriving anytime soon. According to him, Microsoft is in the early stages, working on prototypes and exploring the best way to bring this idea to life. “We’re learning from what’s happening in the market right now,” he explained. This means Microsoft is taking a careful, thoughtful approach, looking to develop something truly innovative based on current trends.
Short-Term Focus: Improving the Xbox App
In the meantime, Microsoft will focus on refining the Xbox app to improve its functionality on existing handheld devices. Spencer emphasized the company’s commitment to making Xbox gaming more accessible, but he also hinted that their future handheld would go beyond just cloud gaming.
What to Expect: Local Gaming and Cloud Integration
When asked about the type of handheld device Xbox might create, Spencer hinted that it would likely offer the best of both worlds. “Being able to play games locally is really important,” he said. This could mean a device similar to the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck, allowing users to download and play games locally, but with the added flexibility of cloud-based play.
Why This Matters
Microsoft’s entry into the handheld console market could be a game-changer for portable gaming. Spencer’s vision is for a device that feels like an Xbox, giving players access to their entire game library and save files on the go. The potential for this device to integrate seamlessly into the Xbox ecosystem is exciting, but for now, fans will have to wait.
While details are scarce, one thing is clear: Microsoft’s next big move in gaming will be a game-changer for portable players everywhere.
