Xbox Next-Gen Console Project Helix Reportedly Aiming for Up to $1,800 Price Tag
According to a report by Fortune Magazine citing internal estimates, Xbox's next-generation console family, Project Helix, may cost consumers between $1,200 and $1,800 if left unsubsidized. The family is reportedly planned to include a handheld device targeted for holiday 2027 and a main under-the-TV box scheduled for holiday 2028. The report also highlights an internal dispute between the Xbox and Windows teams regarding the operating system for the handheld device.
Key points
- Project Helix is reportedly estimated to cost between $1,200 and $1,800 for consumers.
- The handheld version of Helix is reportedly planned for release in holiday 2027.
- The main under-the-TV box version of Helix is reportedly planned for holiday 2028.
- An internal divide reportedly occurred between the Xbox and Windows teams over the handheld operating system.
What Happened
A wide-ranging report and profile of Xbox CEO Asha Sharma by Fortune Magazine outlines pricing and release estimates for Xbox's next-generation console family, codenamed Project Helix. Internal estimates reportedly place the consumer cost between $1,200 and $1,800, assuming the hardware is not subsidized by the company.
What Changed
The report indicates that Helix will encompass two distinct devices, consisting of a traditional box and a handheld console. Xbox is reportedly planning to release the handheld device first in holiday 2027, followed by the main under-the-TV box in holiday 2028. Additionally, the report outlines an internal disagreement between the Xbox and Windows teams over whether the handheld should run specialized gaming software or a slimmed-down version of Windows Home.
Why it matters
Internal estimates suggest Xbox Project Helix could cost up to $1,800, reflecting broader component and memory cost pressures across the consumer electronics industry.
What we know
- Fortune Magazine published a report profiling Xbox CEO Asha Sharma detailing Project Helix pricing and release plans.
- Project Helix is reportedly planned as two devices: a handheld and a main under-the-TV box.
- Current-generation consoles such as the Xbox Series X and Series S have seen multiple price increases since their launches.
What remains unclear
- Project Helix is estimated to cost consumers between $1,200 and $1,800.
- The handheld Helix is targeted for a holiday 2027 release, while the main box is targeted for holiday 2028.
- An internal divide occurred between the Xbox and Windows teams regarding the handheld operating system.
How the story developed
Fortune Magazine Publishes Xbox Project Helix Report
A report detailing estimated pricing, release windows, and internal team discussions regarding Xbox's next-generation Project Helix hardware family is published.
Original source
