Reports indicate that Microsoft is exploring the development of an Xbox-branded handheld gaming device, potentially through a partnership with an established PC manufacturer.
According to reports, Microsoft intends to collaborate with a PC maker already involved in the gaming sector to produce the handheld device, codenamed “Keenan.” This device is expected to incorporate Xbox design elements and feature an “official Xbox guide button.” It is also anticipated to operate on the Windows 11 operating system.
A primary focus of this project is to address the challenges associated with navigating Windows on handheld devices. The aim is to create a more user-friendly experience, potentially through the development of a specialized launcher or interface optimized for controller input.
This initiative aligns with statements made by Microsoft’s VP of “Next Generation,” who expressed the company’s interest in integrating the Xbox and Windows experiences for handheld gaming. Microsoft aims to simplify the Windows interface to provide a more console-like experience.
Microsoft Gaming’s CEO has previously expressed interest in handheld gaming devices and acknowledged the company’s experimentation with prototypes. The current strategy involves providing a handheld-friendly version of Windows to other PC manufacturers, similar to Valve’s approach.
Reports also suggest that Microsoft has plans for future hardware developments, including a successor to the Xbox Series X, internet-connected controllers, and a first-party Xbox gaming handheld, all tentatively planned for 2027.
