We've been hearing about Microsoft's rumored cheaper new Xbox console for months now, first as Lockhart and then as Xbox Series S. Microsoft's own products even listed the new console on packaging and in documents, but the company refused to confirm its existence. That changed early this morning, though.
Late yesterday, new details of the Xbox Series S leaked via Thurrott, including the first image of the console and a price point. The Series S is small, doesn't look to have an optical drive, and has a very easy to swallow price point of $299. But is it real? Yes, Microsoft confirmed in a tweet this morning.
The official Xbox Twitter account was used to say "Let's make it official" and included the image of the Series S seen above, which matched the leaked shot. The price was also confirmed as being $299, but no further details were forthcoming. Microsoft finished the tweet by stating, "Looking forward to sharing more! Soon. Promise."
Tweet
The tweet above by WalkingCat includes a leaked ad for the Series X which confirms it's the smallest Xbox Microsoft has ever created. It's also an all-digital experience, supports 1440p games at up to 120fps, and includes a 512GB SSD as well as supporting 4K media streaming and 4K game upscaling. There's no reason to doubt this is a real ad Microsoft will use to reveal the console in the coming weeks (or maybe days now).
If the Series S can play all existing and new generation Xbox games while costing under $300, it's sure to be very popular, even if games are limited to 1440p. It also places pressure on Sony to price the digital-only version of the PS5 at a similar level. However, the PS5 hardware doesn't look to be limited in any way like the Series S is.
Windows Central reports that Microsoft is expected to offer the Series S for $25 a month through its Xbox All Access financing option. The site also believes the Xbox Series X will be priced at $499, with a similar financing option offered at $35 a month. As for a release date, both consoles are apparently going to launch on Nov. 10, but we'll have to wait for Microsoft's next Xbox event for these details to be confirmed.
Further Reading
- Xbox Series S Console Listed on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Free Trial
- Sony PlayStation 5: Release Date, Price, News, and More
- Report: New Nintendo Switch Launching in Early 2021
- Sony Releases First PlayStation 5 Ad
- More in Gaming Systems