Xbox next-gen console gets positive development update

According to information from a new leak, Microsoft’s plans have shifted somewhat in the last month and they’re now focusing on developing a new Xbox-adjacent system… although it may have come at the cost of delaying a different, next-gen Xbox system they’ve been working on for some time.

As stated in a new article by Windows Central’s Jez Corden, Microsoft’s previously leaked next-gen handheld has been delayed.

However, this is apparently good news, as it means that Microsoft is now free to focus on Project “Kennan”; a different, previously leaked handheld that’s being developed in collaboration with computer manufacturer ASUS.

“Indeed, Microsoft still wants to build its own Xbox handheld in the future,but Microsoft has decided to prioritize its teams to improve Windows 11 gaming performance, specifically for devices like the ASUS partner device "Project Kennan."”, Corden revealed.

“Our sources have indicated to us that Microsoft is still deeply investing in developing its own Xbox gaming handheld technology in the future, but it was announced internally today that the priorities are moving more deeply towards third-party OEM handhelds in the interim.”

Details regarding Project Kennan, including photos of a mock version of the in-development device, were leaked earlier last month by the United States FCC, so it’s no surprise that Microsoft is shift focus to the upcoming device considering it seems to be further into development than the rumoured first-party Xbox handheld.

However, as Corden notes, it seems that the next-gen Xbox device is still moving forward: “Xbox's handheld ambitions continue unabated, but the focus is shifting towards improving Windows 11 for third-party handhelds — for now. The Xbox Series X successor is totally safe, with development continuing at full pace.”

Much of this information is still unconfirmed for now, but we’ll likely hear something more from Microsoft in the coming months during the Xbox showcase on June 8 this year.