September 21, 2023, 11:18 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Microsoft has big plans for the coming year. Leaked court documents reveal not only a thoroughly revised controller but also two new Xbox models.
In the legal dispute with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, a document has surfaced that leaves nothing to the imagination regarding future Xbox hardware. It includes not only the release schedule for 2024 but also detailed information about the new devices.
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New Xbox Models Coming in 2024
The leaked court document reveals that Microsoft is currently working on two new consoles: Ellewood and Brooklin.
Refresh Xbox Series S (Ellewood)
The more affordable of the two new consoles is set to hit the market by the end of August. The refresh features one terabyte of storage, double that of the original Series S, but still costs $299. Additionally, there’s a new Southbridge–the chip responsible for the ports. This now allows for a USB-C port on the front, instead of the previous USB-A. The new Series S also supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.
The new console is also more sustainable. Not only does the new standby mode save up to 20 percent more energy, but recycled resin makes up more than 30 percent of the casing, and the packaging is 100 percent recyclable.
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Refresh Xbox Series X (Brooklin)
Unlike the new Series S, which is hardly distinguishable from its predecessor, the refresh of the Series X comes in a completely new design. In the leaked document, the console appears almost cylindrical and, unlike its predecessor, comes without a disc drive.
Microsoft doubles the storage to 2 terabytes while still setting the sale price at $499. It also features a new Southbridge and a USB-C port with Power Delivery on the front. WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 are also included.
The new Xbox Series X for 2024 still relies on the Zen 2-based AMD chip, but it will be manufactured using a more efficient 6-nanometer process. This should allow the console to consume less power while maintaining the same performance. The power supply is also expected to draw 15 percent less power. Additionally, the more efficient standby mode will be available for the Series X as well.
According to Microsoft’s schedule, Brooklin will launch 60 days after the Series S, appearing by the end of October 2024. No price increase is planned for the Series X, which will remain at $499.
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New Xbox Controller Coming in May 2024
Before the two Xbox refreshes hit the market, a new Xbox controller is set to be released. Microsoft might unveil the controller–codenamed Sebile–as early as April 2024.
The two-tone design is reminiscent of the Xbox Elite Controller, but Microsoft has also drawn inspiration from Google’s Stadia Controller. The new device supports not only Xbox Wireless 2 and Bluetooth 5.2 but also has a direct cloud connection. An integrated accelerometer enables the new “Lift to Wake” feature–simply pick up the controller, and the Xbox starts.
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Sony set the precedent with the DualSense for the PlayStation 5, and Microsoft might follow suit with the Xbox controller for 2024: Sebile is expected to deliver an even more immersive gaming experience with precise haptic feedback. Similar to DualSense, so-called “Voice Coils” (VCA) are used, which not only enable haptic feedback but also function as speakers.
Microsoft has made several changes to the casing. More recycled materials are used, and the lifespan is longer. The joysticks are now modular. The controller might also come with a rechargeable, replaceable battery for the first time. Buttons and joysticks are quieter than in the predecessor, according to Microsoft. Otherwise, the layout, button actuation points, and joysticks remain the same.
Source
- The Verge “This is Microsoft’s new disc-less Xbox Series X design with a lift-to-wake controller” (accessed September 21, 2023)