Xbox handheld is reportedly on hold

It has been no secret that Microsoft has been developing an Xbox handheld. Today, it has been reported by Jez Corden from Windows Central that the Xbox handheld has been put to the side for now.

The Microsoft insider shares that the company’s priorities have changed since the latest reports. Instead, they have decided to prioritize improving Windows 11 gaming performance “specifically for devices like ASUS partner device Project Kennan,” Jez Corden says.

The Xbox Series X successor that has been rumored to release in 2027 is still “full steam ahead.” While the Xbox handheld has been put on hold, Microsoft seems to be heavily invested in developing its own Xbox gaming handheld in the future.

Project Kennan is still expected to release this year in partnership with ASUS. The hardware is apparently finished, but there’s room to improve the software experience.

Phil Spencer confirmed last year that an Xbox handheld has been in development. So, it hasn’t been a strict secret as to what Microsoft is working on. They want to have their games played anywhere possible, including PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mobile devices, and Xbox consoles.

Would you purchase an Xbox handheld console?