Xbox handheld leak claims powerful AMD chip could give Microsoft's portable a major advantage

Xbox could be preparing to expand its next-generation hardware plans, not only with the home console we currently know as Project Helix, but potentially its own powerful handheld console, if a new report proves to be true.

The rumoured handheld is called Xbox Helix, and it’s reportedly being developed with AMD technology, including next-generation graphics architecture and a processor. However, one particularly interesting detail is that the Xbox handheld could take inspiration from the Nintendo Switch.

According to somewhat reliable industry insider eXtas1s, Xbox Helix could be played both handheld and docked, with the latter reportedly improving the console's performance. This would be similar to Nintendo's hybrid consoles. Microsoft has already teased plans to extend its family of Xbox devices beyond Project Helix, and this latest report adds fuel to the speculative fire.

The Xbox Helix handheld could feature powerful AMD hardware

According to eXtas1s, the rumoured Xbox Helix handheld could feature some impressive hardware, including:

• AMD Medusa Halo: The handheld is reportedly being developed using AMD's Medusa Halo technology, which is expected to bring next-generation processing and graphics capabilities.
• Zen 6C processor: This is the rumoured processor architecture responsible for running games, handling game logic, and keeping everything ticking along in the background.
• RDNA 5 graphics: AMD's next-generation graphics technology, which would handle the visuals, lighting and other graphical effects in games.
• 24 compute units (CUs): These help the graphics processor render games, with the reported 24 CUs potentially giving the handheld some impressive graphical capabilities.
• Handheld and docked performance: The console is reportedly designed to use less power when played handheld, but could offer improved performance when connected to a dock.

The Nintendo Switch-inspired approach of having two ways to play is certainly an interesting choice, and ultimately, that can only be a good thing for gaming accessibility. Playing in docked mode could improve visuals and performance, while handheld mode is great when travelling or if someone else in the house is already using the main TV.

Xbox Project Helix, Microsoft

Furthermore, the reported 'Wide and Slow' approach to conserving battery life when playing in handheld mode appears to be very consumer-friendly. One issue with most handheld consoles over the years is how quickly their batteries can deplete. We're merely speculating about what this could mean at this point, but it's an intriguing concept nonetheless.

When could the Xbox Helix handheld release?

Again, this is speculation for now. It's reported that Xbox Helix could arrive in late 2027, followed by the already rumoured launch window of late 2028 for Project Helix. However, neither release window has been officially confirmed by Microsoft at the time of writing.

Xbox could finally challenge Nintendo and Sony in the handheld market

Having more competitive choices in the handheld gaming market is something many gamers have desperately wanted, especially in recent years. Nintendo has arguably always been king in that department, beginning with the Game Boy in the 90s and continuing with the Switch 2 today.

Sony enjoyed great success with its PlayStation Portable (PSP) in the early 2000s, but not so much with its successor, the PlayStation Vita (PS Vita), in the early 2010s. Sony seemingly gave up on the latter too quickly, despite it being impressive hardware. Its most recent device, the streaming handheld PlayStation Portal, has also struggled to make the same impact as its rivals.

Microsoft already has a collaboration with ASUS for its ROG Xbox Ally range to compete with Valve's Steam Deck. However, if Xbox Helix does come to fruition, it would mark Xbox's first dedicated, first-party entry into the handheld console market.

At the moment, there are no substantial rumours surrounding its price. If we learn of any significant developments regarding Xbox Helix, we'll be sure to let you know.