Microsoft Is Planning on a Handheld Console, and Much More

Here's the deal: Xbox is officially stepping into the handheld gaming arena—and honestly, I'm kinda hyped. According to some juicy leaks, Xbox has a new gaming handheld in the works, codenamed "Keenan," expected to drop later this year. But don't get too excited—this isn't exactly a mini Xbox Series X you can fit in your pocket. Instead, it's shaping up to be a Windows-based handheld, probably closer to something like the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally, but decked out with unmistakable Xbox vibes.

What makes it intriguing is Microsoft's partnership with an unnamed big-name PC gaming brand (think ASUS, Lenovo, MSI, or Razer). It's probably gonna run Windows, have the Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass at the forefront, and yes, it'll likely support Steam, too. It feels like Microsoft is using this as a test run to refine gaming handheld experiences, potentially streamlining controls, minimizing annoying pre-installed bloatware, and optimizing things like power management.

But hold onto your controllers—there's even bigger news. Microsoft isn't stopping there. A full-on next-gen Xbox console is also greenlit, targeting a 2027 release. We're talking a beefed-up successor to the Xbox Series X, new controllers with direct-to-cloud connectivity, and potentially support for third-party storefronts like Steam, Epic Games Store, and more. Xbox seems determined to blend console and PC gaming closer than ever, which could mean easier ports, better backward compatibility, and even some futuristic AI features.

Of course, this news has fans both excited and cautious. Xbox's focus on multi-platform accessibility has worried some die-hard console fans, who fear they're being left behind as Microsoft tries to appeal to broader audiences. But these hardware announcements show Xbox still values its console gamers and wants to keep them onboard for whatever comes next.

So, for now, I'm cautiously optimistic. Xbox clearly isn't done innovating, and if these leaks hold up, gaming on Xbox platforms—big, small, handheld, or couch-bound—is about to get even more interesting.