Just under two weeks after Microsoft and Xbox addressed speculation about potentially leaving the console business, Xbox President Sarah Bond has again confirmed that development on new hardware is well underway.
In a recent interview with Variety, timed with the debut of the ROG Xbox Ally handheld devices, Bond was asked whether Xbox is still committed to producing its own consoles. She responded by emphasizing that successors to the Xbox Series X and Series S are in active development.
“We’re absolutely planning for the future,” Bond said. “Work is already happening on our next-generation hardware. We’re in the stages of prototyping and design, and we’ve announced a collaboration with AMD to support this effort.”
Bond added that the ROG Xbox Ally represents another direction for innovation, giving players more options alongside future consoles. “We’re always tuning in to what gamers and developers want,” she explained. “When there’s a clear call for something new, we aim to deliver.”
The ROG Xbox Ally handheld line is part of that broader innovation strategy, though early feedback has been mixed, particularly around its price. Interestingly, Bond’s comments mirror those made earlier in October, highlighting the AMD partnership—hinting that the upcoming console may also be tied to existing business agreements.
Xbox’s Future Still Feels Uncertain
Despite the reaffirmation of new hardware, there’s still some ambiguity about Xbox’s long-term direction. Earlier this month, insiders reported that the future of Xbox’s console lineup was uncertain, with Microsoft potentially shifting focus more toward software. Around the same time, retailers such as Costco and Sam’s Club began pulling Xbox products or heavily discounting inventory, and price hikes were noted across Xbox hardware and Game Pass.
In response to the growing rumors, Microsoft quickly reassured the public that it remains committed to investing in the Xbox ecosystem. Bond’s recent statements reinforce that message—but questions remain. Even if a new Xbox console is on the way, the company may face a tough market and uncertain retail support when it finally arrives.
FAQs
- Is Xbox working on a new console?
Yes, Xbox President Sarah Bond confirmed that next-generation Xbox hardware is currently in the prototyping and design phase. - What did Sarah Bond say about the future of Xbox?
Sarah Bond stated that Xbox is “absolutely planning for the future” and is actively developing new hardware in collaboration with AMD. - What is the ROG Xbox Ally?
The ROG Xbox Ally is a handheld gaming device created in collaboration with Xbox as part of its broader innovation strategy, offering gamers more hardware options. - Will the next Xbox console use AMD technology?
Yes, Xbox has announced a continued partnership with AMD for the development of its next-generation console hardware. - Is Microsoft planning to exit the console business?
Despite rumors, Microsoft has reaffirmed its commitment to the Xbox ecosystem, including future console development. - Why are Xbox products being discounted at retailers?
Some retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club have recently discounted or removed Xbox inventory, fueling speculation, but Microsoft insists it remains invested in its hardware and services.
