I think we can keep that worry aside for some other day. We are exploring the possibility of the possible hardware first. That’s what this topic is about actually.
Well, Microsoft can produce something like ARM device with XCloud integrated for cheap. Call it like Xbox Cloud OS or something.
I don’t see a point in Xbox perusing in-house hardware for a handheld in light of the Steam Deck.
Well, they ideally can make Xbox OS (Xbox is already running Windows 11 anyway) but special image for custom Steam Deck devices. But if it is freely available - people will try to install it everywhere rather than buing Xboxes.
That is even more pointless… That’s just xCloud streaming. It can be done on a smartphone which everyone already owns. A streaming stick is possible. To connect with non-smart TV
This… The best option there is. Steam deck doesn’t come with windows installed.
Consumers will have to buy windows for steam deck. MS can bundle windows with PC Gamepass here for a subscription service and sell it. Call it Gamepass OS to gather traction and advertising. It will run n PC games.
Problem with xbox OS is that would require additional optimization from devs. A third xbox sku will be problematic.
Does Steam do some optimizations via Proton? Considering that it is running games.
The thinking is that a Xbox portable would enable extra engagement time for enthusiast gamers and gamers that want to game but lacks the time to do so traditionally. Cost would not be a barrier of entry for these customers, so the portable can launch at $499.
Suppose a portable retains a few milion Gamepass subbers and gains a 1-2 new million subbers, that’s potentially a billion+ dollars in net revenue a year.
And the portable i proposed is just the “test the waters” kind of device. If a Series S level portable can improve the install base to 10 million+, there is no reason not to do it. The returns on investment would be huge. It doesn’t need to do Switch numbers at all to justify its existence.
Microsoft having a device ecosystem shouldn’t have to rely on a single platform to move 50+ million plus units. Same way a Xbox first party game doesn’t need to sell 10+ million units to be successful. We have to view the whole Xbox device ecosystem as a whole, which currently includes last gen consoles, Series consoles and PC.
If a portable can increase the install base by a few million and an ultra high end Xbox can increase the install base by another few million, then those devices will be worthy additions to the Xbox family of devices.
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Steam deck actual runs PC games (windows) via Proton. Therefore, in most of the case performance will always be less when running game on Steam OS. That’s why many gamers would want to install windows natively on steam deck to get even better performance.
And no, it doesn’t do any optimization. It is more like an emulator. ( Not really but I can not explain it with my limited knowledge)
Has to be on par with a Series S.
With how the market is you may as well go all out and put out a 700-800 Handheld which is what it will cost for something on Series S spec level maybe more with the Zen CPU and SSD. But you can limit performance to 720p so maybe an even weaker GPU
Price don’t fix thermals and battery issues
Also 720p means games wouldn’t work natively.
Catherine Gluckstein is Head of Product & Strategy at Xbox Cloud Gaming, and yesterday she Tweeted this:
We worked closely with our friends at Valve to support xcloud #XboxGamePass through Microsoft Edge for the Steam Deck.
She attached this picure:
And also included a link to the Microsoft Edge subreddit with instructions on how to set it up:
Those Reddit instructions even include artwork (icon, banner) to make it look nicely integrated.
Pretty cool stuff if you ask me.
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Sometimes a nicely packaged product matters.
Anyone could plug in a USB powered monitor to a Series S but the xScreen is enticing a lot of people because of of its functionality and form factor. It also nails the specs (low latency, good pixel refresh, etc).
A $149 Xbox Series P that can be used as a regular controller for the consoles could be that enticing.
With Xbox being all about options I think this is a great one namely because of the price.
Wait, you expect Xbox portable to cost around 149$?
I am guessing they mean a streaming device
Oh, I see. I don’t think pure Xcloud device make sense. I still stick to the idea that maybe Series S blade split in half might make sense for Xbox Portable as I don’t see how they can put Series S in a handheld device - power consumption and heating will be too much for a handheld device.
I don’t think you give developers another even lower end target. It’s not even like you can just bump down the resolution further.
IMO it’s either cloud streaming or waiting until they can fit XSS within power requirements.
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Well or they can just aim at complete global saturation with Series S.
I priced it out in its own thread where I pitched a streaming only device. The lack of storage, underpowered CPU, and little memory helps drive the price down.