Reports indicate that the Xbox handheld was nearly canceled due to disagreements over software. Xbox wanted to use a custom-developed operating system, while the head of Windows preferred a specialized version of their OS. However, Xbox now has full control over the software's development direction.
Rumors about an Xbox handheld have been circulating for years. The company eventually partnered with ASUS ROG to release a handheld; however, it is now also preparing to launch a first-party device, reportedly targeting a 2027 release.
A recent report disclosed that the Xbox handheld was nearly abandoned due to internal disagreements over software issues. Xbox wanted to develop a custom operating system for gaming, while the head of Windows preferred a modified version of their software.
A new report from Fortune magazine has revealed Xbox's plans for its handheld, which is expected to be part of the "Helix" device family. The device is currently scheduled for release next year, but an Xbox executive nearly canceled it due to internal disagreements.
Tensions once became so severe that a senior Xbox executive threatened to abandon the handheld project rather than adopt the Windows version.
The device is currently reported to be targeting a 2027 release.
Xbox wanted to adopt a new operating system specifically designed for gaming, while the head of Windows preferred a specialized version of their OS. Ultimately, Xbox has now become the party largely in control of the OS's development direction.
Nowadays, we all know that Windows is not the best platform for various reasons. True, being open-source offers freedom, but custom software finely tuned for specific hardware will always be the better choice.