Microsoft Unveils Next-Gen Xbox Console Plans with AMD Partnership

Microsoft has officially confirmed its development of a next-generation Xbox console in collaboration with AMD. Xbox president Sarah Bond made this announcement in a brief video posted to YouTube, emphasizing the company’s commitment to creating “an Xbox experience not locked to a single store or tied to one device.”

Strategic Partnership with AMD

Bond revealed that Microsoft is entering into a “strategic multi-year partnership” with AMD, which will involve co-engineering silicon for a range of devices, including the upcoming Xbox consoles. This collaboration aims to enhance the gaming experience across various platforms, including Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Focus on Multi-Device Gaming

In her statement, Bond highlighted that the next-gen Xbox platform will prioritize accessibility across multiple devices, rather than being confined to a single ecosystem. “This is all about building a gaming platform that’s always with you, so you can play the games you want across devices anywhere you want,” she stated. The goal is to ensure that Windows remains the premier platform for gaming.

Recent Partnerships and Developments

This announcement follows Microsoft’s recent partnership with Asus, which is set to launch two Xbox Ally handheld devices later this year. This collaboration will introduce a new full-screen Xbox experience on Windows, allowing Xbox Ally devices to access various game stores, including Steam. This move indicates that Microsoft is likely to extend similar capabilities to its next-gen Xbox console.

Backward Compatibility Assurance

Bond’s comments also addressed a crucial aspect of the next-gen Xbox: backward compatibility. She confirmed that the new generation of Xbox will maintain compatibility with existing Xbox game libraries. While the Xbox Ally devices may not support Xbox console games without PC counterparts, the next-gen consoles will ensure that players can access their favorite titles.

Full Statement from Sarah Bond

“That’s why we’re investing in our next-generation hardware lineup – across console, handheld, PC, cloud, and accessories. I’m thrilled to share we’ve established a strategic multi-year partnership with AMD to co-engineer silicon across a portfolio of devices — including our next-generation Xbox consoles in your living room and in your hands. Together with AMD we’re advancing the state of art in gaming silicon to deliver the next generation of graphics innovation, to unlock a deeper level of visual quality and immersive gameplay and player experiences enhanced with the power of AI — all while maintaining compatibility with your existing library of Xbox games. This is all about building a gaming platform that’s always with you, so you can play the games you want across devices anywhere you want — delivering you an Xbox experience not locked to a single store or tied to one device. That’s why we’re working closely with the Windows team to ensure Windows is the number one platform for gaming. The next-generation of Xbox is coming to life and this is just the beginning, we can’t wait to show you what’s next.”