Xbox CEO Asha Sharma told employees that the next-generation platform, codenamed Xbox Helix, will be developed as a “family of devices” to serve different types of players, while a new console remains a primary focus for Microsoft.
Helix will include multiple hardware formats
Sharma said Microsoft does not expect a single device to meet the needs of every player in the upcoming “Gen-10” generation. Instead, the company is planning a suite of hardware offerings under the Xbox Helix umbrella.
“We are moving to a family of devices for Gen-10. There is no single device that serves everyone,” she said.
Despite this shift toward multiple formats, Sharma emphasized that a flagship console will still be delivered first. She noted the company also recognizes demand for devices that enable gaming outside the home.
The stated intention is to combine several hardware categories within a unified ecosystem rather than simply replacing the Xbox Series X|S with a single new console.
Microsoft will partner on some devices
Sharma explained the Helix strategy will involve partners. Microsoft plans to manufacture in-house the hardware categories where it believes it has the strongest advantage, while collaborating with external manufacturers on other products.
“There are some things we are best in the world at making, and there are other things we’ll partner on,” she said.
This approach allows for different device formats within the Xbox Helix family, with Microsoft retaining control of the development of the primary console and partners contributing to other device categories.
New generation operating system is already progressing
Sharma also commented on the software side, saying the operating system for the Helix family “is starting to get really good,” indicating internal progress on the project.
Microsoft is working to simplify cross-platform development so that games can be prepared more easily for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Helix and PC.
Console remains central to Xbox strategy
Although Microsoft has expanded its presence across PC, cloud, and portable devices, Sharma’s remarks reaffirm that the company does not intend to abandon the traditional console. Xbox Helix is presented as a broader hardware strategy: different devices connected within the same ecosystem.
Microsoft has not disclosed which specific products will be part of the Helix family, their technical specifications, or launch timing.
