According to an exclusive report by Windows Central reporter Jez Corden, Microsoft plans to completely eliminate the long-standing "membership required for multiplayer gaming" model starting with the next-generation Xbox console. This change directly contrasts with the mandatory subscription policies currently in place for Xbox and PlayStation platforms. Players will be able to experience all online multiplayer features for free, significantly lowering the barrier to entry.
Even more strikingly, the next-generation Xbox will utilize a revolutionary Windows architecture, with a core design similar to that of the ROG Xbox Ally device. The system will default to a custom interface called "Xbox Full Screen Experience" (which retains the existing UI logic), but players can switch to a traditional Windows desktop environment at any time and freely install third-party game stores like Steam and GOG. This hybrid design retains the immersiveness of the console ecosystem while offering the flexibility of the PC, potentially redefining the boundaries of gaming hardware.
In terms of compatibility, Microsoft promises that the new console will fully support games from the original Xbox to the Xbox Series X|S. It will also enhance the performance of older titles through two AI technologies: "Auto Super Resolution" intelligently improves the visual quality of low-resolution games, and "Frame Generation" optimizes smoothness through interpolation. These features require no additional developer adaptation, meaning classic games can experience a near-remastered experience on the new hardware.
Analysts believe that the dual strategy of eliminating membership fees and opening up the Windows ecosystem is intended to counter competition from Sony's PS5 and PC gaming platforms. If this plan is implemented, Xbox could become the first mainstream gaming platform to break the console-PC barrier. Its market performance will depend on the effectiveness of its AI-enhanced technology and the adaptation progress of third-party stores.
