We know that a major battle in the handheld console market is about to unfold. The niche created by the Nintendo Switch and expanded by Valve with the Steam Deck has now attracted major players. Sony has its PS Portal, and Phil Spencer has previously expressed interest in an Xbox handheld. Now, journalists from Windows Central have dropped a major bombshell: Xbox portable might be launched in 2025 if everything goes well.

The company is working on it with other portable PC manufacturers. This means that Microsoft itself will not be directly producing the device. The handheld will feature a design in Xbox’s signature style, including an official Xbox Guide button. The device’s codename is Keenan. (Makes you wonder how many Xbox executives are Tool fans!)

Xbox handheld console might be launched this yearImage: windowscentral.com

According to Windows Central, the console will likely run on Windows, and while PC Game Pass will be top priority, you will likely to be able to set up Steam and other stores. Considering the recent news about the future of Xbox, this format for a handheld device fits well into Microsoft’s broader strategy.

There have been no official comments from Microsoft yet, but it’s about time for Phil Spencer to catch up with his biggest competitors.

Main image: windowscentral.com

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