Next-gen Xbox rumored to be coming in 2026

The latest rumors in the gaming world have it that Microsoft intends to release the next-gen Xbox by 2026. This would be far sooner that the previously suggested 2028 launch for whatever Microsoft puts forth as the next iteration of its Xbox gaming console.

That 2028 window was put forth in a leaked document from the FTC vs. Microsoft antitrust case. This document was published in May 2022 however, so there’s been plenty of time for Microsoft to have shifted its plans in the interim.

The “info” was shared by Giant Bomb journalist Jeff Grubb during a recent Game Mess Decides stream. Grubb’s source is as-yet unverified. According to Grubb,

There are rumors out there from someone who was part of leaking this stuff on the PlayStation side. But that person is now also saying that Xbox will have their own Xbox Next in 2026, whether that’s the Pro or a full follow-up console…This leaker is saying that stuff is cancelled, and that they’re going to do the Xbox Next faster than they would do otherwise. Maybe moving the start of the next generation by a couple of years.

It is widely speculated that the next Xbox will leverage cloud technology in a big way, and it would make a lot of sense for Microsoft to go this route. Microsoft has certainly gone all-in on bringing its Xbox Cloud Gaming to “as many platforms as possible.” Most recently, Xbox Cloud Gaming became available for Meta Quest VR headsets.

Microsoft’s ultimately-shelved Keystone Project, a cloud-based mini console, may have been a test run for something Xbox might do in the future. Either way, it’s likely to be some time before we hear anything about the next Xbox in any official capacity.