Description: Microsoft’s VP of "Next Generation," Jason Ronald, has unveiled their plans to bring the "best of Xbox and Windows" to PCs and handheld devices. Read on to learn more about Microsoft’s vision for the future of gaming.

Bringing the Best Aspects of Xbox and Windows

Focusing on PC First, Then Handhelds

On January 8, The Verge reported that Microsoft’s VP of "Next Generation," Jason Ronald, expressed his vision to integrate "the best of Xbox and Windows" into PCs and handheld devices at CES 2025. Speaking at AMD and Lenovo’s event titled "The Future of Gaming Handhelds," Ronald hinted at Microsoft's plans to extend the Xbox experience to PCs. Following the event, The Verge had the opportunity to delve deeper into Ronald's statements.

"We’ve been innovating extensively in the console space, and as we collaborate across the industry, our focus is on how to translate those innovations to PCs and the handheld gaming arena," Ronald explained.

Although the Xbox handheld remains in development, Ronald assured that significant updates will occur in 2025. "Our goal is to bring those experiences to both players and developers within the broader Windows ecosystem," he stated.

With the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck leading the handheld market, Ronald acknowledged that Windows faces challenges in this space. Microsoft is working to enhance the console experience on Windows by centering the player and their game library at the heart of the experience.

Currently, Windows needs improvements in controller compatibility and support for devices beyond just keyboards and mice. Despite these hurdles, Ronald is confident in Microsoft's capabilities. "The Xbox operating system is built on Windows, so we have a solid foundation to leverage in the PC space to deliver a premium gaming experience on any device," he noted.

When pressed for further details, Ronald hinted at an ongoing journey. "You’ll see numerous investments over time, some of which have already begun, and we’ll have much more to share later this year." He emphasized that their goal is to integrate the Xbox experience into PCs, distinct from the traditional Windows desktop.

While specifics about Xbox’s handheld device remain under wraps, it's clear that Microsoft is focused on blending the best features of Xbox and Windows to significantly elevate the gaming experience.

Handhelds Showcased at CES 2025

As Microsoft shifts its strategy for PCs and handhelds in 2025 and beyond, other companies are also pushing the boundaries of handheld gaming technology.

Lenovo, for example, recently unveiled the SteamOS-powered Lenovo Legion GO S, the first of its kind. SteamOS, already utilized by the Steam Deck, could potentially expand to other handheld devices following Lenovo’s announcement.

Additionally, a replica of the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 was displayed to a select audience by Genki, an accessory manufacturer. While Nintendo has yet to provide official details about its next console, an announcement is expected soon, as promised by president Furukawa, given the company's fiscal year-end approach.

With new handheld devices entering the market, Microsoft will need to accelerate its efforts to keep pace with its competitors.