Xbox executive Asha Sharma announced that the next-generation hardware, codenamed Project Helix, will follow a device family strategy. The plan prioritizes home consoles while offering options for mobile gaming. Microsoft intends to develop some devices internally and collaborate with partners on others, with further details to be disclosed as the project progresses.
Sharma noted that development of the associated operating system is meeting expectations. While media outlets have speculated about a potential handheld console, the internal meeting records did not confirm specific form factors or the ability to run games locally. No information regarding hardware specifications, pricing, or release dates was provided.
Regarding the company's financial and operational status, Sharma stated that the Xbox business has returned to growth following a period of restructuring, layoffs, and studio adjustments. She described current performance as two to three times higher than previous levels, though she did not specify the metrics, baseline periods, or business segments used for this comparison.
The recent organizational changes at Microsoft included the layoff of approximately 1,600 employees in July and nearly 300 additional staff in September. These moves were accompanied by adjustments to studio assignments and business structures. Despite these shifts, leadership expressed confidence in the current strategic direction.
The company highlighted strong initial performance for titles such as Gears of War: E-Day, Minecraft Dungeons 2, and World of Warcraft: Eternity. However, no specific sales figures or player engagement data were disclosed to support these claims of strong market entry.
