Is Microsoft making a handheld console?

In the gaming world, portable consoles have become an increasingly popular option for players who want to enjoy their favorite games on the go. Nintendo has dominated this space with the Nintendo Switch, and Sony previously made an attempt with the PS Vita. But where does Microsoft, the powerhouse behind the Xbox brand, stand in the realm of handheld gaming? Will they ever release a dedicated handheld console? Let’s take a look at what we know so far.

The Current State of Handheld Gaming Consoles

Handheld consoles, like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, have seen incredible success, offering gamers the ability to play console-quality games on the go. These systems feature built-in screens, ergonomic controls, and long battery life, making them the ultimate portable gaming solution. The success of these devices has raised the question: will Microsoft ever join this market?

Currently, Microsoft's main focus is on the Xbox Series X and Series S, alongside PC gaming. The company has also heavily invested in cloud gaming, offering players the ability to stream Xbox games to various devices. However, Microsoft has yet to release a dedicated handheld console, and many wonder if it is even in the works.

Is Microsoft Making a Handheld Console?

While there have been rumors and speculation for some time, Microsoft has not officially released a handheld console to compete with devices like the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck. However, the company has shown some signs of entering the handheld market.

In November 2024, Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, confirmed that Microsoft is indeed exploring the idea of a handheld device. Spencer mentioned that while there are plans for an Xbox handheld console, such a device is "a few years out." This statement indicates that the company is interested in creating a portable gaming solution but isn't rushing to release one anytime soon. Microsoft is likely still evaluating the market and working on its next-generation gaming strategy.

In the meantime, Microsoft is focusing on enhancing the Xbox and Windows experience across existing devices. The company has introduced updates to the Xbox app on Windows PCs, making it easier to enjoy Xbox games on handheld PCs. This strategy reflects Microsoft’s broader push to provide cross-platform gaming experiences, whether on console, PC, or cloud.

Cloud Gaming as an Alternative to a Handheld Console

While we may not see a traditional handheld console from Microsoft for a while, the company has already pioneered cloud gaming through services like Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly Project xCloud). This service allows players to stream Xbox games directly to smartphones, tablets, and even PCs, without the need for a dedicated console or hardware.

With cloud gaming, Xbox players can enjoy their games on almost any portable device, including Android smartphones, iPads, and PCs. This makes cloud gaming a powerful tool for those seeking portable gaming experiences, eliminating the need for a physical handheld console. Furthermore, Microsoft’s focus on Xbox Game Pass and cross-platform gaming means that players can enjoy a vast library of games without being tied to a single device.

Why Microsoft Hasn’t Released a Handheld Console (Yet)

There are several reasons why Microsoft hasn’t yet released a dedicated handheld console:

1. Focus on Cloud Gaming and Ecosystem: Microsoft has chosen to focus on creating a seamless gaming ecosystem across consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. With Xbox Cloud Gaming, the company provides a portable gaming solution that doesn't require physical hardware.

2. Market Competition: The handheld console market is already dominated by Nintendo with the Switch and Valve with the Steam Deck. Microsoft may be cautious about entering a saturated market where it would have to compete against established players.

3. Cost and Viability: Developing and marketing a new handheld console comes with significant costs. Instead, Microsoft is likely investing in its cloud infrastructure and services like Xbox Game Pass, which allows gaming on various devices without the need for a dedicated console.

What’s Next for Xbox and Portable Gaming?

While we may not see an official Xbox handheld anytime soon, Microsoft’s efforts to improve the cloud gaming experience and cross-platform gaming are making portable gaming a reality for Xbox users. If Microsoft decides to enter the handheld market in the future, it’s likely to focus on seamless integration with their existing services, such as Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming.

In the meantime, players can enjoy Xbox games on their smartphones, tablets, and laptops, making cloud gaming a compelling alternative to a traditional handheld console.

Conclusion: Will Microsoft Make a Handheld Console?

As of now, Microsoft has not made a handheld console. While they are exploring the possibility of entering the handheld market, it appears that they are focusing more on cloud gaming and cross-platform solutions. With advancements in Xbox Cloud Gaming, players can already enjoy Xbox games on a variety of portable devices, providing a flexible and convenient gaming experience without the need for dedicated hardware.

Keep an eye on future announcements, as Microsoft may eventually make a move into the handheld space — but for now, it seems that their primary focus is on cloud gaming and enhancing the Xbox ecosystem across multiple platforms.