Microsoft appears to be gearing up for a mid-generation update of the Xbox Series X and S consoles, with anticipated release dates set for August and October 2024, respectively, based on leaked documents from the FTC.
The upgraded Series X console, codenamed Brooklin, is described as a digital-only variant, reminiscent of the current Xbox Series S in design, taking on a cylindrical shape. According to the leaked documents, Brooklin is expected to deliver 12 teraflops of power with 4K resolution and is equipped with 16GB of RAM. Impressively, it will offer 2TB of storage, a generous allocation considering its digital-only nature.
Microsoft’s focus seems to be on promoting the new console’s sustainability features. The documents mention a 15% reduction in PSU (Power Supply Unit) consumption and a new low-power standby mode that consumes only 20% of the current iteration’s standby power. Additionally, the console will come in 100% recyclable packaging.
Meanwhile, the Xbox Series S is also slated for a mid-generation refresh, codenamed Ellewood, offering 10GB of RAM. The leaked documents suggest that Microsoft plans to unveil both Ellewood and Brooklin simultaneously in the summer of 2024, potentially coinciding with a Summer Games Fest announcement.
According to the leaked timeline, Ellewood is scheduled for release at the end of August 2024, while Brooklin will follow suit at the end of October 2024. Both consoles are expected to launch at the same price points as their current Series X and S counterparts, priced at USD$300 and $500, respectively. Microsoft’s strategy behind the two-month gap in release dates is to allow Ellewood to have its own spotlight before Brooklin takes over during the holiday season.
Furthermore, Microsoft is apparently working on a new Xbox controller, codenamed Sebile, featuring an accelerometer for gyro support. It is expected to be announced in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024 and launched by the end of May 2024 at a price of USD$70.
It’s important to note that this information stems from the FTC and its ongoing trial against Microsoft related to its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. It should be emphasized that Microsoft has not officially announced any mid-generation refresh of its consoles. In fact, Xbox chief Phil Spencer stated just last month that there was no immediate need for such an update. Nevertheless, plans in the tech industry can always evolve over time.