From Polygon · Oli Welsh · · 2m
Project Helix: Next Xbox Console Details
Microsoft's next Xbox console, Project Helix, will cost $1,200-$1,800 and launch in 2028 holiday season.
In brief
Microsoft's next Xbox console, Project Helix, will cost $1,200-$1,800 and launch in 2028 holiday season. Microsoft plans to release Project Helix, a $1,200-$1,800 Windows-based Xbox console, in 2028 holiday season with backward compatibility for existing Xbox games. Originally reported by Polygon.
Xbox's Six-Year Journey
Xbox Series consoles have sold poorly despite Microsoft's $67.9 billion Activision Blizzard acquisition.
Leadership Shifts and Layoffs
Microsoft has faced leadership changes, mass layoffs, and studio closures since the Xbox Series launch.
Project Helix Announcement
Microsoft has announced the next Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, with no release date confirmed.
Price Projection
A Fortune report states Project Helix will cost between $1,200 and $1,800, possibly subsidized by Microsoft.
2028 Release Date
Project Helix is scheduled for release in the 2028 holiday season, a delay from early 2026 projections.
2027 Handheld Plan
A next-generation handheld device is planned for release in 2027 holiday season.
Windows-Based Console
Project Helix will be a Windows-based device that plays both Xbox and PC games.
Backward Compatibility
Microsoft has committed to backward compatibility for existing Xbox games on Project Helix.
Price vs. Previous Estimates
Project Helix's price is higher than earlier estimates from gaming tech YouTuber Moore's Law is Dead.
Xbox Ally Connection
The Xbox Ally handheld is an early version of Project Helix with a Full Screen Experience interface.
Tech Specs
Project Helix will use AMD's Zen 6 processor and RDNA 5 graphics unit for 4K at 120 frames per second.
Power vs. Price
Project Helix is expected to be more powerful than PlayStation 6 but at a higher price.
Handheld Device Plans
A handheld device is planned for release in 2027, with OS development tussles between Windows and Xbox teams.
Next-Gen Games
The Elder Scrolls 6 and Halo are likely next-gen titles for Project Helix, with potential for The Witcher 4.
The takeaway
Microsoft plans to release Project Helix, a $1,200-$1,800 Windows-based Xbox console, in 2028 holiday season with backward compatibility for existing Xbox games.
