Everything we know about Project Helix, the next Xbox

Microsoft has announced its next-generation Xbox under the code name Project Helix. Xbox chief Asha Sharma confirmed the console will play "Xbox and PC games" and said it "will lead in performance," formalizing the project as the company prepares to discuss the hardware with partners at the Game Developers Conference.

Timing is tentative: comments from AMD’s chief and reporting by Jez Corden place a release in late 2027, following the Xbox Series’ industry-standard seven-year cycle. Supply issues tied to a global RAM shortage could still force delays, and Microsoft faces pressure to balance price and power — the Series X currently retails for $650 and former Xbox exec Sarah Bond described the next machine as a "very premium, very high end" device.

Project Helix appears closely aligned with Windows. The Xbox Ally handheld and its Full Screen Experience have been described as early previews of the next console, which should be able to run other stores and launchers like Steam and Battle.net.

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