Microsoft appears to be gearing up for a mid-generation refresh of its Xbox Series X and S consoles, with a rumored release date of August and October 2024, respectively. Leaked documents from the FTC indicate that the updated Series X, codenamed Brooklin, will be a digital-only console in a cylindrical shape.
According to the leaked specifications, the Brooklin console will boast 12 teraflops of power, 4K resolution capabilities, and 16GB of RAM. It will also offer 2TB of storage, a generous amount considering it is a digital-only device. Microsoft seems to be emphasizing the sustainability aspects of the new console, with a 15% reduction in PSU supply and a new low-power standby mode that consumes only 20% of the current standby mode. Additionally, the console will come in 100% recyclable packaging.
The Xbox Series S, codenamed Ellewood, will also receive a mid-generation refresh. It is reported to have 10GB of RAM. The leaked documents suggest that Microsoft plans to announce both the Ellewood and Brooklin consoles simultaneously, possibly during a Summer Games Fest event in 2024.
The leaked timeline indicates that the Ellewood console is set to launch at the end of August 2024, while the Brooklin console will launch at the end of October 2024. Both consoles will be priced the same as their current Series X and S counterparts, with the Series S priced at $300 and the Series X priced at $500.
In addition to the console refresh, Microsoft is said to be working on a new Xbox controller, codenamed Sebile. This controller will feature an accelerometer for gyro support and is scheduled to be announced in Q4 of fiscal year 2024, with a planned launch in May 2024 for a price of $70.
It is important to note that Microsoft has not publicly announced these mid-generation refresh plans. Xbox chief Phil Spencer recently stated that there is no need for a mid-gen refresh at the moment. However, plans can always change, and these leaked documents provide an intriguing glimpse into what Microsoft may have in store for the future of its Xbox consoles.
Sources: Leaked FTC documents
Author: George Yang for IGN
