For some time now, rumors and insider reports have hinted that the upcoming Xbox console would be more akin to a Windows PC, complete with an Xbox-themed interface. Now, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella himself has confirmed this exciting direction, stating that the company is actively pursuing a hybrid PC/console strategy for its next Xbox, effectively ‘revisiting’ the very concept of what a console can be by blending it with a PC.
These groundbreaking comments from the chief executive regarding Microsoft’s gaming vision were made during a recent TBPN livestream. During the discussion, Nadella delved into Xbox’s evolving multiplatform strategy and offered insights into the future of Xbox hardware.
Recent statements from Xbox leadership have consistently pointed towards the next home console adopting a design philosophy similar to handheld devices like the ROG Xbox Ally, with Windows OS serving as its core foundation. Nadella further underscored Microsoft’s deep commitment to PC gaming within the Windows ecosystem, hinting at a cohesive and interconnected future for both Xbox and Windows platforms.
During the interview, Nadella reminded everyone, “The biggest gaming business we have is the Windows business.” He elaborated, “For us, Windows gaming is paramount – and naturally, platforms like Steam have done an incredible job building vast, successful marketplaces on top of it.”
The ROG Xbox Ally X runs Windows with an Xbox interface.
Photo Credit: Microsoft/ Asus
Xbox’s Universal Gaming Vision: Titles for Every Platform
Over the years, Xbox has expanded its empire by acquiring numerous acclaimed studios, including major publishing and development powerhouses like Bethesda and, more recently, Activision. Since 2024, the company has notably shifted away from a strict exclusive content strategy, actively working to bring a wider array of its first-party titles, both classic and new, to competing platforms such as the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch.
Nadella clarified that Microsoft now views itself primarily as a game publisher, committed to bringing its diverse game library to all platforms, not limiting them solely to Xbox hardware.
He emphasized, “Our approach to gaming now starts with the understanding that, following the Activision acquisition, we are the largest publisher in the industry. As such, we aspire to be an exceptional publisher, adopting a strategy similar to how we’ve handled Office products.”
Nadella further articulated Microsoft’s expansive vision: “We plan to be ubiquitous, present on every single platform. Our goal is to ensure that our games are accessible and enjoyed by gamers wherever they choose to play – be it on consoles, PCs, mobile devices, through cloud gaming, or even on their televisions.”
The Next Xbox: A True Console-PC Fusion
Nadella also elaborated on Microsoft’s innovative vision for the upcoming Xbox console. His comments reinforce earlier hints from Xbox executives Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond about a Windows-centric future for the platform. This aligns with a recent Windows Central report suggesting the next-gen Xbox would indeed be Windows-based, offering the capability to play PC games from various digital storefronts. Ultimately, Nadella presented the next Xbox as a groundbreaking console/PC hybrid.
He explained, “Beyond publishing, we’re dedicated to pioneering innovative system-level work for both consoles and PCs. It’s somewhat amusing that many view consoles and PCs as distinct entities. Our original intention with building the Xbox console was to create a superior PC, optimized for gaming performance. I believe it’s time to challenge that conventional understanding.”
Nadella concluded, “Ultimately, the console offers an unparalleled gaming experience and delivers unmatched performance, consistently pushing system capabilities forward. I’m genuinely excited about what’s coming next for both console and PC gaming from our team.”
These statements from Nadella echo earlier sentiments from Xbox president Sarah Bond, who described the next Xbox as a “very premium, very high-end curated experience.” Bond had previously indicated that the success and design of new handheld devices like the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X would influence the direction of the next Xbox home console, further cementing the idea of a Windows-powered future for the platform.
Currently, the next-generation Xbox console is anticipated to launch around 2027.