Microsoft Shifts Focus from Xbox Series X|S Upgrades to Next-Gen Console Development

Microsoft has reportedly abandoned plans for upgraded versions of the Xbox Series X|S, opting instead to focus on the development of a fully-fledged next-gen Xbox console anticipated for release in 2026. Insider RedGamingTech revealed that although the company initially planned to introduce enhanced models of the current generation, specifically an Xbox Series S with a more powerful GPU and increased memory, these plans have been scrapped.

Concerns that multiple console variants could overwhelm the market and confuse consumers were the primary reasons for this decision. Additionally, the updated Xbox Series S version, despite its improvements, would still have been less powerful than the standard Xbox Series X, potentially complicating its market position.

The cancellation of the updated Xbox Series X occurred significantly earlier than the plans for the Xbox Series S. The Series S was expected to feature a GPU based on the RDNA 3 architecture and offer expanded capabilities through machine learning. However, Microsoft ultimately decided to concentrate on next-gen console development to provide a more significant advancement in gaming experience.

Thus, instead of releasing interim updates for the Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft appears to be investing in the future of gaming technology, preparing the ground for the next major step in the evolution of Xbox consoles.