A major leak from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has revealed Microsoft’s roadmap for its Xbox Series consoles, covering both hardware and software plans for the coming years. The leak outlines three next-gen Xbox consoles, including a mid-cycle refresh of the Xbox Series X and Series S.
The Xbox Series X Refresh, codenamed Project Brooklin, is set to be the most powerful X console ever released. It features a cylindrical design and offers 4K Gen9 console gaming performance. The console is fully digital and comes with increased internal storage, faster networking capabilities, and a more energy-efficient design. The Xbox Series X Refresh will be priced at $499 US and will be available with 2 TB of storage. It will also include features like USB-C front panel power delivery, WIFI 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and reduced PSU power by up to 15%.
The Xbox Series S Refresh, codenamed Project Ellewood, maintains the rectangular and slim design of the existing Xbox Series S. It will also have increased internal storage of up to 1 TB and a new immersive controller. The price for the Xbox Series S Refresh will remain at $299 US. It will include a new southbridge (PCH) for modern IO capabilities like WIFI 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. Additionally, it will feature a new low-power standby mode that is 20% more efficient. The Xbox Series S Refresh is set to launch in Q3 2024, followed by the Xbox Series X Refresh later in the same year.
The leaked roadmap also reveals details about the next-gen Xbox, which is slated for launch in 2027. While it does not have an internal codename, it is said to utilize a modernized CPU and GPU architecture. The CPU will have a choice between ARM64 and x64, with the latter based on AMD Zen 6 core IP. The GPU will be co-developed with AMD or leverage their IP, potentially featuring the next-gen RDNA 5 (Navi 5). The next-gen Xbox will also prioritize the NPU for Machine Learning and AI-related tasks.
The leak mentions graphics innovations such as Next-Gen DirectX Raytracing, Dynamic Global Illumination, Micropolygon Rendering Optimizations, ML-Based Super Resolution, and an Extensibility Model for Faster Iteration and Innovation. It indicates that console makers will focus on upscaling techniques and AI hardware for better graphics results.
In addition to the console updates, Microsoft is also working on new controllers. The Xbox Series consoles will come with a new controller called Sebile, featuring a dual-tone white/black design. Another controller, codenamed Igraine, will include a USB Type-C to Type-C cable.
While the hardware specifications for the next-gen Xbox are still being finalized, the move to ARM64 architecture is a significant decision. The SOC design is expected to be finalized around 2024, with the first tape out by 2026. Overall, Xbox users have exciting updates to look forward to, as Microsoft plans to offer multi-generational upgrades and improvements over the next few years.
Sources: ResetEra, USCourts
