The gaming industry is always evolving, with major players continuing to battle each other over the course of decades. However, with the development of technology, new trends and new battlefields emerge. Judging by the latest reports from various media, we can foresee the key segment where, apparently, everyone will be competing.

This segment is portable gaming and integration with a broader ecosystem. It’s clear that the pioneer in this area was initially the Nintendo Switch, followed by Valve with its Steam Deck, which sparked a second revolution. However, the full potential of these projects seems set to be revealed only in the near future.

There are several different stories here. First, it seems that at CES 2025, Lenovo will announce a portable computer running SteamOS. Valve has worked hard to create a seamless ecosystem for players, with SteamOS now able to run games just as successfully as Windows. SteamOS is no longer seen as a weak link, meaning that other hardware manufacturers might take an interest in SteamOS as a native platform.

Steam and Xbox appear to be working on similar projectsImage: x.com

Second, Windows Central reports that Microsoft is considering allowing third-party manufacturers to produce devices under the Xbox brand. The portal’s editor, Jez Corden, mentioned that Microsoft’s previously launched “This is Xbox” marketing campaign will become clearer, likely after January. The company may make some announcements at CES 2025 or during its own Xbox Developer Direct event.

Add to this the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, expected in 2025, and the PlayStation Portal, and we have a key sector where all the major industry players will be competing. Different companies are taking different approaches, but in the end, this competition should benefit consumers, as competition works in their favor.

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