Portable Xbox Prepares to Rival SteamOS

Microsoft's Xbox Ambitions: A PC-First Approach to Handheld Gaming

Microsoft's VP of "Next Generation," Jason Ronald, recently outlined the company's strategy to integrate the best features of Xbox and Windows onto PCs and handheld devices. This initiative aims to redefine the gaming landscape, starting with a strong PC focus before expanding into the handheld market.

At CES 2025, Ronald emphasized bringing the Xbox experience to PCs, leveraging innovations initially developed for consoles. He highlighted the intention to seamlessly integrate these advancements into the broader Windows ecosystem, creating a unified gaming experience across platforms.

Acknowledging the challenges of current Windows handheld compatibility, Ronald stressed the importance of making Windows more controller-friendly and improving support for devices beyond keyboards and mice. He expressed confidence in Microsoft's ability to overcome these hurdles, citing the Xbox operating system's foundation on Windows as a significant advantage. The goal, he clarified, is to integrate the Xbox experience into PCs, not simply utilize the existing Windows desktop environment.

While details remain scarce regarding Microsoft's upcoming handheld, Ronald hinted at substantial investments and further announcements later in the year. The overarching aim is to deliver a premium gaming experience on any device by prioritizing the player and their game library.

A Competitive Handheld Market

The handheld gaming market is rapidly evolving. Lenovo's recent launch of the SteamOS-powered Legion GO S highlights the growing interest in alternative operating systems for handheld devices. Meanwhile, rumors of a Nintendo Switch 2 are circulating, suggesting intense competition in this space. Microsoft's success will depend on its ability to quickly deliver a compelling handheld experience to compete effectively with established players.