# Microsoft's Project Helix console could cost $1,200 to $1,800

> Microsoft is planning a high-end gaming console for 2028 at a historically steep price, while internal disputes over its handheld device's operating system threaten the project.
- Title: Microsoft's Project Helix console could cost $1,200 to $1,800
- Summary: Microsoft is planning a high-end gaming console for 2028 at a historically steep price, while internal disputes over its handheld device's operating system…
- Keywords: microsoft, project helix, xbox, gaming console, handheld device, asha sharma, technology, science, Microsoft's, Project, Helix, console
- Source: Ars Technica — https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2026/10/report-microsofts-project-helix-planned-for-2028-at-1200-to-1800-price
- Published: 2026-10-20T21:14:33+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: microsoft, project helix, xbox, gaming console, handheld device, asha sharma, technology, science
## Project Helix gets a price tag
Microsoft has internally projected its 2028 Project Helix console will cost between one thousand two hundred and one thousand eight hundred dollars, according to Fortune's profile of Xbox CEO Asha Sharma.
## Subsidies could lower the price
The final consumer price could drop if Microsoft decides to subsidize the cost, as many console makers have done in the past, Fortune reports.
## Hardware costs are rising
The slowdown in Moore's Law and AI-driven component shortages mean cutting-edge gaming hardware is no longer cheap.
## Internal clash over handheld OS
Microsoft is divided over whether its Helix handheld will run a trimmed-down Windows Home or a custom operating system. One high-level executive threatened to cancel the handheld if forced to use Windows, Fortune reports.

> threatened to cancel the handheld altogether if they were forced to use Windows
## Xbox team takes control of OS
The Xbox team is now largely controlling the direction of the operating system for Project Helix, though CEO Asha Sharma said the two groups are still working closely together.
## Key takeaway

Microsoft projects its 2028 Project Helix console will cost between twelve hundred and eighteen hundred dollars, reflecting rising hardware costs, though the price could drop if subsidized.