- Microsoft and AMD have signed a multi-year strategic alliance to co-design the processors for future Xbox consoles, covering desktop and laptop versions.
- The next generation of Xbox consoles will feature advanced AMD technology and rely on artificial intelligence to improve graphics and gameplay.
- Xbox will open its consoles to multiple digital stores beyond its own, allowing gamers greater flexibility and access to their games across multiple platforms.
- A strong commitment to backwards compatibility remains, allowing the current game library to be used on new devices, and it's confirmed that a handheld console remains in Microsoft's plans.
The video game industry has been waiting expectantly in response to the recent movements of Microsoft and AMD, who have decided to join forces once again in the face of the future Xbox consoles. Although collaboration already existed in previous generations, the confirmation of a new strategic agreement for the coming years marks a turning point both in terms of hardware and future vision for the brand.
The announcement, made by Sarah Bond, President of Xbox, not only put an end to months of speculation, but also cleared up doubts on some of the most debated issues: from the backward compatibility to the possibility that a portable xbox self-made remains in Microsoft's plans.
A multi-year deal for a new era of Xbox hardware
Microsoft and AMD have sealed a multi-year alliance for the joint development of semiconductors and processors. The goal is to create a range of Xbox devices that is not limited to the classic living room console, but also includes options portable, PC, and enable cloud gaming, as well as accessories. This strategy seeks to position the brand in a broader digital ecosystem where the player is the center of the experience.
Bond has stressed that the intention of this collaboration is to bet on more advanced graphics, gaming experiences powered by Artificial Intelligence and, above all, keep intact the backward compatibility with the extensive library of Xbox games.
Furthermore, it has been hinted that The next generation of processors could be based on even more cutting-edge technologies than the current ones., with rumors pointing towards architectures such as Zen 6 and future RDNA graphics chipsFor more information on hardware news, you can check out our article on AMD processors for the next Xbox.
This approach responds to a scenario where Microsoft seeks to avoid intermediate steps, such as "Pro" revisions released by other manufacturers, and instead focus on a medium-term technological renewal.
Xbox is committed to device and digital store diversity.
One of the most notable developments is the decision of not limiting new Xbox consoles to a single store or platformThe message, clear and direct, points out that users will be able to access multiple game stores, opening up to platforms such as Steam, Epic Games Store and even the ability to run games from other ecosystems if developers allow it. This reinforces the idea of interoperability that Microsoft seeks in its devices.
El xbox team is working closely with the Windows area to ensure that the latter remains the reference in the world of PC gamingThe idea is to offer a seamless Xbox experience, whether playing on a traditional console or on portable devices, PCs, or other manufacturers that integrate the brand.
In this new framework, interoperability and freedom of choice for the user are at the heart of the strategy, breaking with the common practice of other competitors who tend to restrict ecosystems and games. To learn more about how to optimize the experience across all your Xbox devices, visit our article on Play Xbox on PC with HDMI.
Clues about the portable console and full backwards compatibility
During the announcement, Sarah Bond has made it clear that a first-party Xbox handheld console is still on the roadmap., denying recent rumors that it was canceled. The agreement with AMD contemplates the development of silicon tailored to different form factors, opening the door not only to traditional devices, but also to portable versions or collaborations like the ROG Xbox Ally with ASUS. For more details on this handheld console and its compatibility, check out our review on All about the portable Xbox Ally X.
Furthermore, backward compatibility remains a fundamental pillar: The entire Xbox game library will be available to enjoy on the new devices, whether connected to a television, carried in your hand, or even through cloud services. This is especially relevant for those with extensive digital catalogs from previous generations.
Goodbye to traditional exclusivity?
The new approach of Xbox challenges the classic "exclusivity" modelMicrosoft's intention is to shift competition to the realm of digital stores and services, rather than hardware sales or catalog restrictions. The service Xbox Play Anywhere will gain even greater prominence, allowing access to games across multiple platforms and devices, as long as the developer allows it. This aims to promote a more flexible and universal experience for players.
This way, players will be able to decide not only where to play, but also where to buy their games, creating a greater freedom of choice in the market, where openness and compatibility will be key. Even so, not all video game consoles are created equal. Check out our article on Which console is better, PlayStation 4 Pro or Xbox One X?.
The future of the Xbox family looks to be more open, with a strengthened collaboration with AMD and a vision that prioritizes access and compatibility, seeking to transform the role of consoles in the era of connected ecosystems.
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