CEO Asha Sharma revealed details regarding Project Helix, a next-gen console internally projected to cost between $1,200 and $1,800. This premium pricing follows reports that engineering deadlines for the hardware have been moved up by several months.
The console is slated for a holiday 2028 release, following a new handheld due in 2027. Development of the handheld faced internal friction as leaders pushed for Windows Home, while Sharma's team sought custom software to optimize gaming performance.
With Xbox profit margins at 3% and memory supply expected to tighten through 2028, the high price point reflects rising costs. While hasn't confirmed final pricing, the jump from the $799.99 Xbox Series X marks a major shift for the brand's future.