Word on the street is that Microsoft won’t be unveiling any new Xbox handheld gadgets this year. However, there’s a buzz that we might just see something exciting in 2025. The rumor mill has been churning about this elusive Xbox handheld for quite some time, especially after Phil Spencer, the big shot in charge of Microsoft Gaming, dropped some hints earlier this year that set imaginations ablaze.
The scoop comes from the Xbox Two podcast on YouTube. Journalist Jez Corden spilled some beans about the potential arrival of new Xbox gear next year. Although some thought we might catch a glimpse of this mystery device at the Game Awards, Corden squashed those hopes for this December 2024 event, saying that there won’t be any new hardware popping up.
Here’s what he had to say: “I don’t think you’re going to see hardware at The Game Awards, but, I do think next year is a good year for revealing new hardware. Especially hardware you could hold in the palm of your hand.” He also hinted that come June, the Xbox team might just pull back the curtain on this intriguing piece of hardware. But let’s not get too carried away just yet, because officially, Xbox hasn’t confirmed a thing.
In other Microsoft news, the company’s Prism emulator just got a nifty upgrade, courtesy of the preview build 27744. This update broadens its capabilities to handle more 64-bit x86 (x64) games and software. It now supports extensions like AVX, AVX2, BMI, FMA, and F16C. Thanks to this enhancement, titles like Helldivers 2 and Starfield, which rely on AVX2, are now ready to roll. If you’re curious and want a deep dive, check out the full lowdown on the Insider preview build 27744 over on the official website.
And in a surprising twist, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has snagged a $30 million pay hike even amid a year marked by significant gaming layoffs.
