Xbox Unveils New Handheld Console, Game Pass Integration at Core of Portable Experience

In a move that reshapes the handheld gaming landscape, Xbox has officially revealed its long-rumored portable console — a sleek, all-digital device designed with Game Pass integration at its heart. Unveiled during a surprise segment in today’s Xbox Showcase, the yet-to-be-named handheld marks Microsoft’s boldest step yet into mobile gaming, offering full access to players’ Xbox libraries and cloud streaming capabilities.

The device features a 7-inch OLED touch display, haptic feedback support, and native controls reminiscent of the Xbox Series X gamepad. Under the hood, it boasts custom hardware developed in collaboration with AMD, promising near-console-quality performance for both downloaded titles and cloud-streamed content.

But the true star of this handheld is Xbox Game Pass. Phil Spencer emphasized that Game Pass subscribers will be able to jump seamlessly into their library, including titles from Xbox Studios, EA Play, and a growing catalog of indie hits. Cloud saves and cross-platform syncing ensure players can pick up where they left off—whether on console, PC, or handheld. Offline mode is also supported for downloaded titles, alleviating concerns about connectivity while traveling.

Microsoft’s focus on value and ecosystem accessibility is evident in the handheld’s design, which supports Xbox Cloud Gaming out of the box but also allows for local downloads of select Game Pass titles. Spencer described the device as “a natural extension of the Xbox experience,” adding, “We want our players to enjoy their library wherever they go, without compromise.”

Industry analysts speculate this move positions Xbox to compete not only with the Steam Deck but also with Nintendo Switch’s chokehold on the hybrid gaming market. Early hands-on impressions from select media hint at smooth performance and minimal input latency—two areas where cloud gaming has traditionally struggled.

A price and release date remain under wraps, though Spencer confirmed more details would arrive this summer. With Xbox leaning fully into a platform-agnostic future, this handheld may be the missing piece in its long-term strategy to make Xbox synonymous not just with a box under your TV—but with gaming, anywhere.