Steam Deck, It All Started With You: Phil Spencer Confirms Xbox Is Working on a Portable Console

Following the success of the Nintendo Switch, not only as a console but also as a format, Valve made a bold move with its portable Steam Deck, which quickly set itself apart from others. Asus’ ROG Ally and the Lenovo Legion Go attempted to follow this trend. As such, it’s no surprise that Xbox wants to join the race.

It’s official: Microsoft is preparing its portable console.

Official confirmation. After much speculation, Xbox head Phil Spencer confirmed the project. There aren’t many details about it, but it’s always nice to know that something is official (no matter how long users wait for its launch).

What Spencer said. In an interview with Bloomberg, Spencer hinted at the project, saying, “The expectation is that we would do something.” He added that Microsoft is working on prototypes, studying the market, and evaluating the device’s development. “Longer term, I love us building devices,” Spencer noted. “And I think our team could do some real innovative work, but we want to be informed by learning and what’s happening now.”

In short, Microsoft’s portable console is in the early stages.

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Any details? Not many yet, other than that gamers will need to be patient. Microsoft is also focused on enhancing the Xbox app on existing devices. Game Pass already allows users to access games on mobile devices through the cloud, so it’s logical for the company to prioritize improving this service.

And about the cloud… Xbox’s development of a portable console aligns with its digital-first strategy. Current options enable local gaming with low to standard graphics quality for limited periods (due to battery life). However, Xbox’s focus on cloud gaming and digital formats positions a portable console as a natural fit for maximizing Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Microsoft’s goal is for all games, including those outside of Game Pass, to be accessible in the cloud. Through Project Lapland, users will eventually be able to purchase games from the Xbox Store and play them on any device—PC, console, mobile phone, or potentially a portable console in the future. This approach would expand gamers’ options and support Xbox’s strategy for an all-digital future.

Images | Steam Deck | Xataka On

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