Microsoft is reportedly gearing up to introduce a new version of its premium Xbox Series X console, this time in a sleek, all-white, digital-only format, expected to hit the shelves sometime in June or July of this year.
Rumors about this “adorably all-digital” iteration of the Xbox Series X initially emerged in 2024, stemming from a substantial leak of official Microsoft documents during a legal dispute with the FTC. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer later downplayed the significance of those leaked plans, citing significant changes since their inception and leaving the fate of the all-digital console uncertain.
Nevertheless, recent claims by reputable leaker eXtas1s, writing for Exputer, suggest that Microsoft’s plans for an all-digital Xbox Series X are very much alive. According to eXtas1s, who allegedly had access to confidential footage of the new console, the digital-only version will ditch the optical disc drive of its predecessor while sporting an improved heatsink and upgraded Nexus card.
Moreover, the console will adopt a white color scheme, a departure from the original Series X design, although other aspects of the hardware are expected to remain unchanged.
Notably, eXtas1s’ report contradicts the earlier leaked design, which hinted at a radically different cylindrical form factor, a front-facing USB-C slot, enhanced Wi-Fi capabilities, a refreshed controller, and reduced power consumption. This suggests that the upcoming revision might be a more modest update.
The possibility of Microsoft moving towards a disc-free future raised concerns, especially after reports of significant layoffs within its games retail teams. However, Spencer reassured the community that Microsoft remains supportive of physical media while acknowledging the growing trend of digital game purchases among consumers.
While today’s report of a summer release for the digital-only Xbox Series X is intriguing, it remains unofficial until Microsoft confirms it. Interestingly, Microsoft recently hinted at more hardware news to come, though these announcements are expected later in the year, during the holiday season, which doesn’t align with the speculated release window of June to July.
In addition to hardware developments, Microsoft confirmed plans to expand its gaming portfolio by releasing previously Xbox-exclusive titles like Sea of Thieves, Pentiment, Grounded, and Hi-Fi Rush on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch.
This move aims to reassure fans about Microsoft’s commitment to the gaming industry while hinting at ambitious plans for the future, promising significant advancements in the next generation of Xbox hardware.
