Xbox Mode is coming to Windows 11, the next generation of consoles starts in 2027

Microsoft has some pretty big news coming out of its annual GDC event, including the next-gen Xbox console ‘Project Helix’ and also a timeline for the new ‘Xbox Mode’ coming to Windows 11.

Jason Ronald, Vice President of Next Generation at Xbox announced Today, the next generation of the Xbox console is actively in the works, with the first versions expected to ship to game developers sometime in 2027. The next-gen console will apparently be equipped with dedicated AMD hardware that will provide a “huge leap forward in ray tracing performance and capability.” Microsoft adds that it will “integrate intelligence directly into the graphics and computing pipeline, delivering significant gains in efficiency, scale, and visual ambition.”

In addition to the news about the new console, Microsoft also gave detailed information about the Xbox and Windows crossovers.

Starting in April, Windows 11 will add Xbox Mode in select markets. It brings the UI from the ROG Xbox Ally handheld to most Windows machines for a better full-screen and controller experience.

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Ronald says:

After debuting the initial version with ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, today I’m excited to share that we’re bringing the same innovation to Windows 11 with Xbox mode starting in April in select markets. Xbox mode allows gamers to seamlessly transition between productivity and gaming with the familiar full-screen and optimized Xbox experience while embracing the openness of Windows.

In addition, the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, which includes both the ability to play Xbox games locally on Windows using the same purchase, as well as efforts such as cloud gaming, now has a library of more than 1,500 games.

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