Microsoft may launch PS Portal-style portable Xbox

Rumors have been circulating for some time now that the Microsoft may be working on a Xbox Portablesuggesting a possible shift away from the traditional console model. In March we even we published here that the Redmond Giant was exploring concepts for a portable.

Some believe the device could be similar to the ROG Ally from ASUSwhile others speculate a similar path to the PlayStation Portal, such as Jez Corden, from the Xbox Two podcast.

In the last year, two leaks have indicated that the Xbox Series successor could arrive in late 2026before the PlayStation 6, trying to repeat the success of the Xbox 360. There are also rumors that Microsoft would be developing prototypes for a portable console, raising suspicions of a hybrid design like the Nintendo Switch.

However, on the Xbox Two podcast, Jez Corden stated that the new Xbox will not be a hybrid. He envisions a traditional console and a separate handheld, with paid multiplayer only being removed in the next generation of Xbox.

“I’ll tell you right now: There’s going to be a separate handheld, and there’s going to be a successor to the Xbox Series X. They’re going to be two different things. They’re not just going to try to focus on the handheld; they’re going to make a more traditional console for Series X people, and then a handheld. I’m predicting a successor to the Series X, a handheld, and the end of the paywall for premium multiplayer games. That’s my prediction.“

Jez Corden went further and said that the so-called “portable Xbox” will not be a standalone device, like the Nintendo Switch or the ROG Ally. It will be more like an add-on for the Xbox, that is, an accessory. That is exactly what Sony has with its PlayStation Portal which, despite criticism, sold well in several markets. Watch the podcast in full:

Returning to the topic of ending the paywall for multiplayer games, despite Corden’s optimistic prediction, it’s hard to imagine Microsoft eliminating the charge for multiplayer, considering the benefits offered by Game Pass.

For now, all of this is just speculation and we need to wait for official announcements. What do you think of these possible predictions?

Source: Wccftech