Xbox's Switch 2 competitor may have hit the wall as Microsoft presses pause on handheld console
We've heard numerous rumors about Microsoft working on an Xbox handheld gaming console to compete with the Steam Deck and the Nintendo Switch 2. The console is said to be a native Xbox handheld, but a new report suggests that Microsoft is shelving it to focus on other priorities.
According to a report by Windows Central, Microsoft has decided to halt development on the handheld, which was rumored to launch in 2027. This isn't the handheld codenamed "Kennan," as that's still on track.
The one being put on the shelf is a native Xbox device, more akin to the Nintendo Switch 2 than a Steam Deck or Windows handheld. It was designed to run full Xbox games like a traditional console.
According to the report, Microsoft has three console prototypes in development for its next-generation gaming platforms. The handheld would have been the fourth potential device.
It's important to note that this is just temporary. Microsoft still has handheld gaming on its radar. Part of that focus is shifted to improving Windows 11's handheld gaming performance, but it's also about releasing its handheld console at some point.
"Microsoft is still deeply investing in developing its own Xbox gaming handheld technology in the future," reads the Windows Central report.
The company is also focused on cloud gaming. The report states that the company is now testing next-generation Xbox cloud systems at its headquarters, which is exciting for those with fast enough internet to take advantage of the cloud's processing power.
Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
Perhaps Microsoft plans to see how the Asus Kennan device does before it dips its toe more aggressively into the space. Rather than risking its resources, Microsoft can utilize its partnership with Asus to gauge whether gamers are ready for a handheld with Xbox branding attached.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
30 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for just A$23
The following content is brought to you by Mashable partners. If you buy a product featured here, we may earn an affiliate commission or other compensation. Modernize your old computer with a A$23 lifetime Windows 11 Pro license TL;DR: Upgrade your PC for just A$23 with this Microsoft Windows 11 Pro license, on sale through June 1. Do you have an old computer that could use a refresh? Upgrade its operating system and give it new life with Windows 11 Pro, now just A$23 (reg. A$310) through June 1. If you've got an older device lying around, you don't need to shell out hundreds of dollars for a brand-new laptop. Just give it a new lease on life with this Windows 11 Pro upgrade. This new operating system is filled with features that can help you tackle both work and play. What's new in Windows 11 Pro? Microsoft Windows 11 Pro was created with modern professionals in mind, but you don't have to be tackling work to appreciate the new features. It offers a seamless interface that's easy to navigate, snap layouts, improved voice typing, and a more powerful search experience everyone can benefit from. We should all be taking our cybersecurity more seriously, and Windows 11 Pro offers advanced security measures like a biometric login, encrypted authentication, and advanced antivirus defenses to beef up your protection. Need to get work done? Windows 11 Pro includes Microsoft Teams, and also offers some unique professional features. Azure AD lets you manage logins and permissions for employees, while Hyper-V makes it possible to create and run virtual machines to test things. You'll also get Windows Sandbox, a way to test files safely without risking your computer. If you'd like to ditch the mouse and keyboard, Microsoft Windows 11 Pro gives you the option to go touchscreen. And it also puts Copilot, Microsoft's AI-powered assistant, right on your desktop. Once you tackle all your responsibilities, it's time to start gaming. Windows 11 Pro includes DirectX 12 Ultimate, with graphics that make you feel like you're right there in the game. Note: You'll need 4GB RAM and 40GB of hard drive space to run Windows 11 Pro, and if you're running Windows 11 but can't install upgrades via Windows Update, you won't be able to install this version either. Elevate your PC experience with this lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro, now just A$23 (reg. A$310) through June 1. StackSocial prices subject to change. Microsoft Windows 11 Pro Opens in a new window Credit: Windows Microsoft Windows 11 Pro AU$23 AU$310 Save AU$287
The Verge
2 hours ago
- The Verge
Here's where you can buy microSD Express cards for the Switch 2
All microSD cards look pretty much the same, but when it comes to buying the right one for your Nintendo Switch 2, only microSD Express cards will work for storing and playing games. The microSD card you used in your original Switch or Switch Lite will offer limited functionality with Nintendo's new handheld, as it will only let you view screenshots or video clips you captured previously — that's it. That's because Nintendo opted for a significantly faster spec in its new handheld console, which boasts an advertised 4.4x improvement in terms of transfer speeds over the microSD cards you might already have lying around. That improvement is signified by a small, easy-to-miss 'EX' emblem etched onto the front of the card. What's harder to miss is how much more expensive Express cards are, with some costing more than $50 for just 256GB of storage. The Switch 2 supports microSD Express cards up to 2TB in size, although 1TB is the largest capacity widely available (that's an overstatement, as many are sold out currently), with some cards selling for up to $200 a pop. Phew. I suppose it makes sense that they're pricier since they're classified as bonafide PCIe NVMe SSDs by the SD Association. Walmart's Onn label is a beacon of light, as its microSD Express cards are significantly cheaper than the competition, with its 512GB model costing $65.88 when it's in stock. Thankfully, since the Switch 2 has 256GB of built-in storage, you most likely won't need a microSD Express card immediately upon receiving your console. Getting a microSD card was a rite of passage with the original Switch since all versions, aside from the newer OLED edition that launched in 2021, came with just 32GB. If you're in the market for one of these pricier storage expansion cards ahead of the console's launch, we've listed the available options below.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
'Mario Kart World': Release date, confirmed characters, where to buy, new features and more
Mario Kart World, the ninth edition of Nintendo's beloved racing game, comes out next week. And while fans of the games (and perhaps the movie, and the Universal theme park rides) can expect to see a lot of familiar Mario Kart elements, there's also plenty of new stuff to look forward to — and a whole new Nintendo device to secure so you can play. Here's everything you need to know before playing Mario Kart World, including where you can pre-order the game, how to get the Nintendo Switch 2, new game modes, confirmed courses and more. Pre-order Mario Kart World Pre-order the Mario Kart World and Nintendo Switch 2 bundle Mario Kart World comes out on June 5 in conjunction with the Nintendo Switch 2. Pre-orders are open now for the new game. Pre-order Mario Kart World The cost of the new Mario Kart game starts at $79. You can also bundle the game with the new device you'll need to play it. The Nintendo Switch 2 on its own costs $450, or with the game bundle, $499 — saving you $30 on Mario Kart World. Pre-order game at Walmart Pre-order game at Best Buy Check bundle stock Mario Kart World will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, so if you were wondering, "Can I play the new Mario Kart game on my original Nintendo Switch?" the answer, unfortunately, is no. You can, however, order a bundle that includes the new Mario Kart World game and the Nintendo Switch 2. Here are the game courses confirmed by Nintendo so far: Airship Fortress Boo Cinema Cheep Cheep Falls Choco Mountain Crown City Desert Hills Dino Dino Jungle DK Pass DK Spaceport Faraway Oasis Great ? Block Ruins Koopa Troopa Beach Mario Bros. Circuit Moo Moo Meadows Peach Beach Peach Stadium Rainbow Road Salty Salty Speedway Shy Guy Bazaar Sky-High Sundae Starview Park Toad's Factory Wario Shipyard Wario Stadium Whistlestop Summit The new Mario Kart game features two flagship modes: Grand Prix mode, which consists of a series of four races in pursuit of the podium and a Cup (of which there are seven), and Knockout Tour mode, where you race in elimination-style matches. There are also Time Trials, Vs. Race, Battle Mode and Free Roam, which allows you to drive around and explore the whole of Mario Kart World. There's rumor of a Reverse mode after characters were spotted racing in reverse in a Japan-only Mario Kart World ad. Perhaps an unlockable mode to replace Mirror mode? Time will tell if that rumor proves true. Mushroom Cup Flower Cup Star Cup Shell Cup Banana Cup Leaf Cup Lightning Cup The number of players you can have in Mario Kart World varies for each multiplayer mode. The game can have four players in split-screen multiplayer, and up to eight players (via local wireless multiplayer) if four players have their own Nintendo Switch 2s. Up to 24 players can get in on the action in online multiplayer or battle mode. Classic characters and newcomers will be available to race in the new Mario Kart game, including: Mario Luigi Peach Daisy Yoshi Toad Wario Waluigi Bowser Koopa Trooper Rosalina Pauline Baby Mario Baby Luigi Baby Peach Baby Daisy Lakitu Toadette Bowser Jr. Baby Rosalina Shy Guy Donkey Kong Birdo King Boo Wiggler Dry Bones New: Nabbit Cow Goomba Coin Coffer Hammer Bro Conkdor Piranha Plant Chargin' Chuck Sidestepper Cheep Cheep Snowman Monty Mole Rocky Wrench Penguin Dolphin Fish Bone Stingby Para-Biddybud Peepa Pokey Cataquack Swoop Spike Pianta
