Next-Gen Xbox "Project Helix" Will Use AMD's Custom SoC & Feature 'FSR Diamond'

After teasing mysterious Xbox hardware at the GDC 2026, Microsoft has finally shared some extra details about its next-generation Xbox console. Codenamed Project Helix, the console will run both Xbox and PC games while pushing graphics and performance boundaries, as pointed out by some industry insiders. Besides teasing a collab with AMD for Project Helix, the company also previewed Xbox Mode for Windows 11, a full-screen experience that optimizes gameplay while keeping PC flexibility.

Project Helix to be powered by a custom AMD SoC and feature ‘FSR Diamond,’ Microsoft confirms at GDC

Speaking of Project Helix, Microsoft says that the upcoming Xbox console will be powered by a custom AMD SoC. It’ll be co-designed for the latest DirectX and “FSR Diamond” technology. Microsoft promises multi-frame generation, neural rendering, and ML upscaling, delivering a huge leap in ray tracing and overall visual quality. Intelligence is integrated into the graphics and compute pipeline, boosting efficiency, scale, and realism for more immersive worlds.

Do note that Project Helix won’t hit stores this year. Microsoft plans to ship alpha hardware to developers in 2027, suggesting a late-2027 launch. Alongside the new console, the company will celebrate 25 years of Xbox with classic games and new ways to experience its iconic franchises.

By merging console performance with PC support, Project Helix and Xbox Mode aim to unify gaming across devices. With AMD’s custom silicon and AI-powered graphics, Microsoft is laying the foundation for the next generation of immersive, high-performance play.

Xbox Mode on Windows 11

Starting in April, Xbox Mode will reach select Windows 11 markets. The feature reduces background processes and system overhead, which gives a console-like experience on a PC. Combined with Xbox Play Anywhere, players can carry progress, purchases, and saves seamlessly across platforms, making cross-device play simpler than ever.