digital_ghost
Member
Just the richest company on earth.
If they dont have games they will just buy every developer until they do.
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A handheld Xbox? Microsoft’s gaming chief can’t stop thinking about it
- Thread starter Topher
- Start date
If they dont have games they will just buy every developer until they do.
gaming_again
Member
I want Xbox to do something new and exciting.
MarkMe2525
Gold Member
Soo... it just so happens to work great for me, because I'm special? It's your connection (through no fault of your own) full stop. If it really looked like "trash sludge 480p youtube with tons of lag", I would say so and not use it, but it doesn't. If you have a good connection to one of their nodes, it looks fine, it plays pretty good. Your subpar experience isn't indicative of the service, when working correctly. In my experience, it was no better or worse than stadia non-pro version. Sometimes stadia worked better, sometimes xcloud worked better.As I've already explained to you I'm in a million+ population US metro on a hardwired Gigabit fiber connection situated within 1-2 hour drives of several other million+ pop metros. It's not a connection issue, it's objectively Xcloud's terrible encode/decode and throttled bitrate. The fact you can't see the issues on a 5" phone screen or 17" monitor doesn't mean they're not real. Their streaming video quality is indisputably the industry's worst by a wide margin. That's without even touching on the unplayable input lag introduced by streaming 30fps console code across the internet. The service is shit top to bottom and Phil likely torpedo'ed the entire Xbox hardware brand diverting the majority of Series X silicon to server blades during covid shortages.
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Sushi_Combo
Member
Can he be this passionate for his first party output.
Nydius
Member
Microsoft chasing trends, as usual. I wrote this in the Chris Dring topic but it bears repeating: If Microsoft is just in the prototyping stage, they are years away from launch. That's years where existing handheld manufacturers will have time to improve and refine their products. The market Microsoft would be launching their Xbox Handheld into would be nothing like the current handheld market today.
Given that Xbox is the lowest marketshare device, launching without Steam support would be a death sentence. if it's just a portable Xbox, only the hardest of the hardcore Xbox fans are going to be interested in it due to their existing libraries but broad market appeal will be limited, at best. Plus, could you imagine being a developer being told "Hey, now you need to develop for the Series X, Series S, and Handheld"?
Edit:
Yeah because being owned by the richest company on earth worked out so well for Windows CE PDAs, Zune, Windows Phone, and NOKIA.
They've given Surface Tablets a much longer leash but those are also very close to being thrown on the pile of irrelevance.
Given that Xbox is the lowest marketshare device, launching without Steam support would be a death sentence. if it's just a portable Xbox, only the hardest of the hardcore Xbox fans are going to be interested in it due to their existing libraries but broad market appeal will be limited, at best. Plus, could you imagine being a developer being told "Hey, now you need to develop for the Series X, Series S, and Handheld"?
Edit:
Yeah because being owned by the richest company on earth worked out so well for Windows CE PDAs, Zune, Windows Phone, and NOKIA.
They've given Surface Tablets a much longer leash but those are also very close to being thrown on the pile of irrelevance.
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DeltaPolarBear
Member
I am seeing the Xbox handheld as something else entirely...
I believe Phil is simply trying the salvage the future of Xbox hardware the only way he knew how. A way to keep the Xbox library alive.
We know that right now, a Series S probably can't be run on a handheld. But maybe it can be done at some point when the tech is better. And when it does come out, the remaining Xbox customers would be able to get their game library access back. I think Phil is just wanting to avoid killing the libraries of the customers who had been supporting him all this time.
Economics might get in the way though. There might not be any means to do this handheld that would actually MAKE MONEY, and that might mean Phil could be forced to kill the idea.
I believe Phil is simply trying the salvage the future of Xbox hardware the only way he knew how. A way to keep the Xbox library alive.
We know that right now, a Series S probably can't be run on a handheld. But maybe it can be done at some point when the tech is better. And when it does come out, the remaining Xbox customers would be able to get their game library access back. I think Phil is just wanting to avoid killing the libraries of the customers who had been supporting him all this time.
Economics might get in the way though. There might not be any means to do this handheld that would actually MAKE MONEY, and that might mean Phil could be forced to kill the idea.
Xion_Stellar
People should stop referencing data that makes me feel uncomfortable because games get ported to platforms I don't like
MEEHHH
The only way this would be exciting is if they go with their own custom APU because otherwise even if they go with the latest one the 8840U that's not very exciting spec wise
The only way this would be exciting is if they go with their own custom APU because otherwise even if they go with the latest one the 8840U that's not very exciting spec wise
digoutyoursoul
Member
Games for fuck sake!
SportsFan581
Member
Even if a Xbox branded handheld was a flop, by Xbox standards, it would probably sell 2 or 3 times the amount that Steam Deck has sold so far.
Very true. People are acting like the steam deck has 10’s of millions. It’s a pretty niche machine. It’s probably sold 1-2% of the switch.
If they can make one that has the power of a series S, that would sell gangbusters IMO. It would be supported by every 1st and 3rd party game right out of the gate, all native, on the go.
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DeltaPolarBear
Member
There is a reason they wouldn't be able to. They would end up with a Gamegear. Burning hot with 30min battery life.
Good comparison too, as you can run the Master System cartridge on a Gamegear.
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If it ran for 30 mins that would be shit. If they can get it to 2-3 hours that would be pretty great. I’m not saying this will happen.
I was saying IF they can fit the power of a series S into a handheld and it meets standards of other handhelds, battery life, temperature, screen, etc. that would be a fantastic piece of hardware.
Unknown Soldier
Member
Phil shitting on Windows is funny, Satya should give him the guillotine just for that blasphemy
analog_future
Resident Crybaby
If it runs Windows (and not some proprietary “Xbox” OS), can play Steam games, and is priced right, I’m definitely interested.
DeltaPolarBear
Member
It is nice to dream. I am sure Sony would love to release a portable PS4 if it was at all possible.
DJ12
Member
Heavily subsidised and easy to convert to Linux or suitable other emulation platform them I'm in, else I'm out. I have zero interest in a handheld system capable of running worse looking games from a proper console, but emus on the go sure do.
I have a r35s little handheld, just need something bigger and better.
Legion Go proves nothing capable will be cheap.
I have a r35s little handheld, just need something bigger and better.
Legion Go proves nothing capable will be cheap.
Haint
Member
I don't think you're special, I think you're just some combination of too small a display from too far away, having very low standards for image quality, have no knowledge or point of reference for what it's actually supposed to look like, or possibly failing eyesight.
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ReBurn
Gold Member
I think it's good that he recognizes the issues with Windows as it relates to these handheld gaming PC's. Windows as it exists today is mediocre for handheld gaming. A more focused gaming experience would be great.
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ZehDon
Gold Member
Its library will consist of games automatically supported due to its hardware. If it runs PC games or native Xbox games, it'll have out-of-the-box support for countless titles and it'll be automatically supported moving forward. Microsoft aren't going to create a bespoke platform ala PS Vita. The age of those types of dedicated secondary platform devices is over.
As I've mentioned before, the issue isn't so much the support, it's their target market. If it's an Xbox in your hands, they have the same problem as their consoles: they're not making games that enough people give a shit about and a portable Xbox loses out against every PC-portable in terms of features. They should've launched the generation with their handheld instead of the Series S if they wanted to lead the market. On the otherhand, if it's just another PC-portable, they're competing against the Steam Deck. So, as a Steam Deck owner, why would I buy this thing? Unless they've managed to deliver a lot more power at a much lower cost, I feel they're setting themselves up to lose because, honestly, what are the odds of Microsoft delivering an objectively better device than the Steam Deck?
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64bitmodels
Reverse groomer.
then you aren't in the market for PC handhelds.
I'd recommend a Miyoo Mini or an AYN Odin 2.
MIYOO-Mini Portable Game Console
In Stock Now! Shipping time within 24 hours. MIYOO Mini V4 Version Updated Full Lamination Screen（OCA Laminated） 2000mAh Double Protection High Density Polymer Battery Battery Life is 5-6 Hours（Removable to replace 804050 battery） Storage bag instead of carton packaging Product Specifications...
www.keepretro.com
Odin 2
Odin2: The New Generation Ultimate Gaming HandheldQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen2 CPU | Android 13 | 8000mAh Battery | Hall Sticks | 1080p 6" Touch Screen Notice: There are no games preinstalled in Odin 2.
www.ayntec.com
Miyoo Mini for pre-Dreamcast, Odin 2 for 6th gen-Switch.
64bitmodels
Reverse groomer.
Yep. Except they're so lazy that they'll just think about it and blabber on about how beneficial it is to the Xbox brand and how "when everyone plays we all win" and other platitudes from the Xbox division.
I'd wish for something grandiose and amazing considering Microsoft's resources and expertise but it's likely going to be yet another ROG Ally clone.....
exactly lol, running like a headless chicken to make fetch happen.
its over bozo, retire already as the person that killed xbox consoles.
James Sawyer Ford
Member
That's the big question - how are they going to accomplish full BC on a handheld device? Even the XSX is way above what a handheld would be capable of.
Ozzy Onya A2Z
Member
Just put serious coin into a great screen + form factor + battery + elite 2 controller style/paddles + emulation + xbox/GP/PC ecosystem and we're good. Stop fucking about and get the Surface team on it, then price the hell out of it and loss lead for once.
Y'all spent $70Billion, imagine if you had of just dev'd 5 killer games and loss led the shit out of powerhouse Xbox beyond comprehension. Do that with your handheld and all the other PR fluff you have Phil. I trust in you still but you got to make it a front runner instead of side or behind.
Drop COD/FIFA/GP with a great loss leading handheld bundle and watch that shit blow up.
Y'all spent $70Billion, imagine if you had of just dev'd 5 killer games and loss led the shit out of powerhouse Xbox beyond comprehension. Do that with your handheld and all the other PR fluff you have Phil. I trust in you still but you got to make it a front runner instead of side or behind.
Drop COD/FIFA/GP with a great loss leading handheld bundle and watch that shit blow up.
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Fess
Member
You think so? I don’t. I think it would be a historical flop. If the main console isn’t selling, why would a handheld where the games run worse sell? Can’t see any market excitement for this product.
ZehDon
Gold Member
I see them doing it in one of two ways. If they're custom building their own hardware, it's not entirely unfeasible to squeeze an Xbox Series S into a portable formfactor (cost might be prohibitive, though). And if it really is just a portable Series S, it'll "just work" - likely with OS-level work to shift resolution down to the device's inbuilt display. That would be a "Xbox Series P". They can take a loss on the hardware, because it'll be locked to the Xbox eco-system, so it may be the cheaper option.
If it's a PC portable - meaning no native Xbox compatibility - it'll just be another Windows device, and will work with the majority of PC titles without any issues. In this scenario, I'd imagine it won't be branded "Xbox", even if it falls under Spencer. That would be a "Microsoft Surface P" or some-such. However, if this is the case, it may spur Windows OS-level improvements to get overhead down for gaming to let their PC-portables perform better. Of course, without the ability to lock it to the Xbox ecosystem, they'll have to make a profit on the hardware, so this thing could end up quite expensive.
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DJ12
Member
Yeah been looking at an odin2, but figured if MS do w handheld they will sell it at a loss and it would be far more powerfulthen you aren't in the market for PC handhelds.
I'd recommend a Miyoo Mini or an AYN Odin 2.
MIYOO-Mini Portable Game Console
In Stock Now! Shipping time within 24 hours. MIYOO Mini V4 Version Updated Full Lamination Screen（OCA Laminated） 2000mAh Double Protection High Density Polymer Battery Battery Life is 5-6 Hours（Removable to replace 804050 battery） Storage bag instead of carton packaging Product Specifications...Odin 2
Odin2: The New Generation Ultimate Gaming HandheldQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen2 CPU | Android 13 | 8000mAh Battery | Hall Sticks | 1080p 6" Touch Screen Notice: There are no games preinstalled in Odin 2.www.ayntec.com
Miyoo Mini for pre-Dreamcast, Odin 2 for 6th gen-Switch.
SportsFan581
Member
On the face of it, why would anyone buy a gaming machine as weak as the Steam Deck to begin with. People like the portability factor.
P:axMagellanic
Member
He absolutely belongs at Microsoft. Such a clown.
Fess
Member
Steam Deck is a Linux PC with built in controller and mouse pad(s), you can either use it as a portable or dock and turn into a regular PC/console. Full file access. No limits. I even have my own Unity game sitting there in my Steam library.
A dedicated Xbox handheld would be locked down to just run Xbox games/apps. I just don’t see a big market for that, would be super niche.
SportsFan581
Member
What you describe sounds more niche to me than a portable Xbox, tbh. Especially if they bring the thousand or so 360 and OG Xbox games along in some way. It all depends on the capabilities of the device, the price, what the library is etc. But even if it were niche in terms of traditional Xbox, I think it would still garner better sales than the Steam Deck. All the current portables are niche to a certain extent.
ResurrectedContrarian
Suffers with mild autism
Not running Windows is one of the top selling points for the Steam Deck to me. The last thing I want is another device with that horrific OS on it in any form.
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Haint
Member
Luckily for portable competitors Nintendo's 2025 console will be using a cutdown underclocked 5 year SOC and be their most outdated console since Wii. So even AMD won't have problems outperforming it.
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Fess
Member
I just don’t think Xbox is popular enough today that a portable Xbox would pull people in. I think it’ll just sell to a small percentage of existing customers, like 10%. And what’s WW sales figures for Series consoles now? 25 million? So 2.5 million units in that case. Worth it? I don’t know.
Buggy Loop
Member
Alright.... hear me out
- Windows handheld. Yup, bye bye Xbox consoles
- Dock for PC, even work related, or simply leave it like a console.
- They absolutely have to make a better PC xbox app, it's so bad. But if they ditch consoles, the team can focus on a better gaming environment on PC.
- Option within windows to start directly into a console mode "big screen", wake up from controller, pause/resume gaming session, basically all the QOL improvements they put hard work into on consoles, to PC windows.
- Let Steam store on it. Let it be a fully functional PC in fact if you want.
- Now how do you compete with Steam? Who the fuck would bother to buy on Xbox app?
- They have to dig into their pockets and do an Epic of themselves, lower platform fees for devs to put it on PC Xbox store. But not like Epic which kept the same prices, the lower fees should force lower price.
- Keep gamepass of course, a variation of it at least, the whole thing probably needs a 2nd look on if games have to come to it day 1.
- Even if peoples use it as a Steam machine, Microsoft don't care. Just like they don't really care you would be using free version of windows, or office, One Drive, etc. They make cash regardless of your choice. They telemetry your ass and sell data. They got to a $3T company with this kind of business model. Why would gaming be exempt.
- Now how do you compete with Steam? Who the fuck would bother to buy on Xbox app?
- 100% digital
- Buggy Loop are you insane? My answer : Blockchain
- Blockchain. You buy a key. It's yours. Want to resell it? Blockchain allows it. You want to sell it to Gamestop used? You can. You want to give it to a friend? You can. Same benefits as physical. Hell, with that blockchain based digital wallet, you could even resell your DLCs, rare skins, etc.
- In an ideal world, (and there's gonna be a LOT of questions to answer for the digital age and consumer rights), that keychain could/should be valid for any platforms. The tech could make it completely platform agnostic as long as platform holders agree to it. Ultimately, publisher sells you an agnostic key. Nintendo switch 2 accepts key? Could unlock game on switch. Samsung TV accepts key, Apple TV accepts key? etc etc. I doubt we would get there fast but I think Its inevitable.
- Buggy Loop are you insane? My answer : Blockchain
SportsFan581
Member
They might start to integrate Windows or at least the Windows Xbox store more into Xbox. Allowing games you buy to carry over to PC (expanded play anywhere of some type) could boost buyer confidence.
Topher
Identifies as young