"All-Digital" White Xbox Series X Refresh Leaked by Insiders

[T0@st]

Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has insisted (on multiple occasions) that leaked Xbox product roadmaps are not a true representation of currently in-progress hardware at the company's Redmond, Washington headquarters. Internal documentation (from 2022) suggested that Microsoft had long term plans for physical media-less next-gen Xbox consoles, as well as a 2024 launch of an "adorably all-digital" Xbox Series X refresh. Early February news reports suggested that a few retail outlets had stopped selling Xbox physical media, due to low sales and a perception that Microsoft's console ecosystem prioritizes digital purchases. Spencer addressed ongoing rumors during a discussion with Game File: "We are supportive of physical media, but we don't have a need to drive that disproportionate to customer demand...We ship games physically and digitally, and we're really just following what the customers are doing. And I think our job in running Xbox is to deliver on the things that a majority of the customers want. And right now, a majority of our customers are buying games digitally."

Exputer's eXtas1s—a tipster specializing in all things Xbox, Bethesda and Activision Blizzard—reckons that the aforementioned Xbox Series X refresh is due to launch this summer: "Microsoft is currently working to release a white-colored Xbox Series X with no disc reader, sources close to eXputer have revealed...This all-digital console is expected to be released sometime between the upcoming months of June and July, but there are chances for a slight delay on that front as well." Allegedly, confidential footage has been distributed within insider networks. The Exputer report suggests that the proposed digital refresh could be "$50 to $100" cheaper than the current MSRP of $499.99 for an Xbox Series X 1 TB model. An improved heatsink and modernized wireless network card are mentioned as possible internal upgrades. Games industry watchdogs reckon that Microsoft is attempting to compete with Sony's digital-only PlayStation 5 models—the Xbox Series S is not considered to be a direct competitor here, due to its lesser specifications.



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[LabRat 891]

 

[Steevo]

Nah, even physical game.copies are sus though.

I really love my MSN Music purchased through WMP that no longer works.

My Google Videos didn't last long either.


DRM only works as long as the servers work.

 

[watzupken]

I feel MS should have taken the opportunity to try and reduce the size of the console given that the ODD is gone. The current design is too tall for TV consoles, without obstructing the TV.

 

[mukumi]

I feel MS should have taken the opportunity to try and reduce the size of the console given that the ODD is gone. The current design is too tall for TV consoles, without obstructing the TV.

Who puts a console in front of their TV?
My PS5 is hidden behind my TV, the Xbox could stand behind it as well if needed.