Microsoft plans to power its future Xbox handheld with an AMD APU rather than switching to ARM architecture. This confirmation comes from AMD leaker KeplerL2 on the NeoGAF forums, who stated the device will use a custom low-power AMD processor. Various manufacturers will create their Xbox-branded handhelds using different processors such as AMD Z2E, Intel Lunar or Panther Lake, Qualcomm X Elite 2, and NVIDIA N1. A recent job posting had suggested Microsoft might use ARM architecture for some next-generation Xbox products. ARM would have offered improved power efficiency for a portable system, but would have created compatibility problems with existing Xbox games.
The first glimpse of Microsoft's handheld strategy will come through a device called Project Kennan. ASUS works with Microsoft to develop this Windows-based system featuring an interface similar to Xbox consoles. Gamers can expect Project Kennan to arrive before year-end. The dedicated Xbox handheld remains further away from release than these partner devices. Microsoft continues its strategy of making Xbox games available across multiple platforms despite hardware differences.
The first glimpse of Microsoft's handheld strategy will come through a device called Project Kennan. ASUS works with Microsoft to develop this Windows-based system featuring an interface similar to Xbox consoles. Gamers can expect Project Kennan to arrive before year-end. The dedicated Xbox handheld remains further away from release than these partner devices. Microsoft continues its strategy of making Xbox games available across multiple platforms despite hardware differences.
