Xbox enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the next-generation console, which could hit the market in less than five years, according to leaked chat logs between Microsoft executives.
Plans for a 2028 release
According to the discussions between gaming head Phil Spencer and CEO Satya Nadella, Microsoft has proposed plans to launch the new Xbox in 2028.
The current Xbox Series S/X console generation was released in 2020, around the same time as Sony's highly successful PlayStation 5.
Revealing documents and chat logs
As part of a recent court case with the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), several documents and chat logs have been unveiled.
The FTC was attempting to block Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of Call of Duty publisher Activision Blizzard as the tech giant expands into game publishing.
A glimpse into the discussions
During a meeting in May 2022, which involved more than a dozen senior Microsoft executives including Satya Nadella, CFO Amy Hood, and gaming head Phil Spencer, a leaked document referenced the 2028 launch plan.
In separate chat logs, Anuj Gosali, vice president of immersive experiences, questioned whether Microsoft would continue providing console developers with fixed hardware standards.
Kevin Gammill, a VP of gaming ecosystems, responded, stating that Microsoft had already started the journey towards flexibility with previous consoles and intends to further enhance it with the upcoming 'Gen 10' console.
He emphasized the importance of allowing creators to leverage the unique hardware capabilities while maintaining flexibility.
A redesigned console
According to other leaked documents from the legal case, the upcoming Xbox console, known as 'Gen 10,' will have a significantly different appearance than its predecessors.
Given Sony's success in outselling Microsoft with the PlayStation 5, it is speculated that the Xbox team is aiming for a radically innovative cylindrical redesign.
