Next-Gen Xbox’s Potential Launch Window Might Not Be Locked in for 2027, According to Report

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According to a report from February 8th, Microsoft hasn’t confirmed a release date for the next Xbox, and isn’t committing to a 2027 launch. This means the current Xbox Series X and S consoles might be available for longer than initially anticipated.

Information about the next Xbox has largely come from sources outside of Microsoft. While Microsoft has acknowledged working with AMD on a new console, they’ve been very secretive about its features. Both companies have confirmed it will use a specially designed processor expected to launch around 2027. The new Xbox will also connect with Windows 11 and be able to play games from the Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and previous Xbox consoles.

Microsoft’s Next-Gen Xbox Has No Exact Launch Window Yet

Although AMD suggested the next Xbox might arrive in 2027, that timeline isn’t definite. According to industry insider Jez Corden, Microsoft hasn’t officially committed to a 2027 release. Corden reports that the next Xbox’s launch hinges on improvements to Windows 11, with both Windows and Xbox teams focused on ensuring the console’s operating system is fully refined. Therefore, 2027 remains a possible, but not guaranteed, launch window, as several factors could still influence the timing.

The ongoing issues with DRAM (memory chip) prices are significantly affecting the gaming and tech worlds. Rising costs for components like RAM and SSDs are being passed on to customers. Microsoft, for example, raised the price of the Xbox Series X/S twice in 2025 because of tariffs on imported goods. These RAM price increases are already causing problems for many companies, and could delay the release of the next generation of Xbox and PlayStation consoles beyond their expected 2027 launch. Given the potential for higher manufacturing costs, Microsoft might postpone the release of its next Xbox until the market stabilizes.

Microsoft Still Has Plans For The Current Generation

This situation might actually be good news for gamers who already own an Xbox Series X or S, as it could push Microsoft to continue supporting those consoles for a few more years. Looking ahead, Microsoft is focused on growing Xbox Game Pass. They’re considering several options, including adding a cheaper, ad-supported tier for cloud gaming and combining the Xbox Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass subscriptions into a single package. Another possibility is adding more subscriptions from other companies, like EA Play and Ubisoft+, to the Game Pass catalog. While these services are already partially available, Microsoft hasn’t revealed exactly which other subscriptions might be included.

Even though the next Xbox is still several years away, the current Xbox Series X/S has a solid lineup of games planned for 2026. This includes new games from Xbox Game Studios, like Fable, and popular titles from other developers, such as Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Microsoft is also bringing more games to the Nintendo Switch 2, including versions of Fallout 4, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered. It remains to be seen how well Microsoft’s strategy will work as they continue to develop the next generation of Xbox.

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2026-02-09 02:42