Handheld gaming is experiencing a major resurgence, with devices like the Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck, and PlayStation Portal leading the charge. Despite Xbox Series X and S boasting an impressive library of games, their console sales this generation have been underwhelming. To remain competitive, Xbox has relied on strategies like Game Pass and the landmark acquisition of Activision Blizzard. However, the question remains: how can Xbox regain its footing in an industry where it has fallen behind?
One possibility that has excited fans is the idea of a dedicated Xbox handheld device—a concept teased repeatedly but never fully realized. While Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer and the Xbox team remain tight-lipped about specifics, recent comments and reports provide a glimpse into what the future might hold.
Phil Spencer on Xbox's Handheld Aspirations
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Phil Spencer hinted at Xbox’s exploration of handheld gaming. He acknowledged that the company is actively prototyping devices, stating, “The expectation is that we would do something” in the handheld space. However, Xbox’s immediate focus is on enhancing the Xbox app for existing handheld platforms like smartphones and tablets. Spencer added, “Longer term, I love us building devices. And I think our team could do some real innovative work, but we want to be informed by learning and what’s happening now.”
This suggests that any dedicated Xbox handheld hardware is still in the early stages of development, likely years away from release.
Insider Insights and Speculation
Aside from Spencer’s comments, there has been little concrete news about an Xbox handheld. However, Windows Central journalist Jez Corden offered an intriguing tidbit during the Xbox Two podcast. Corden claimed that while hardware announcements at The Game Awards are unlikely, 2025 could be a significant year for Xbox to reveal new hardware, including something “you could hold in the palm of your hand.”
This insider perspective slightly contradicts Spencer’s emphasis on focusing on app development before diving into hardware. Still, it aligns with Xbox’s ambition to experiment with innovative devices.
What an Xbox Handheld Might Look Like
With no official details about an Xbox handheld’s specifications or capabilities, it’s difficult to predict features like pricing or performance. However, given the success of the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, Xbox would likely follow a similar design philosophy. Expect a sleek, portable device with a form factor optimized for both cloud and local gaming.
While fans eagerly await official announcements, it’s clear that Xbox sees potential in the handheld gaming market. Whether the company opts for an innovative design or sticks to industry standards, the idea of an Xbox handheld device already has gamers buzzing with anticipation.
For now, Xbox remains in the prototyping phase, and the timeline for any handheld release remains uncertain. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Xbox’s next move could redefine its position in the market—or mark another step in its uphill battle.

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