MICROSOFT is working on a new console that works by streaming games over the cloud rather than from discs.
Here’s everything we know so far.
What is Xbox Keystone?
In June 2021, Microsoft announced that it was working on an Xbox streaming stick.
This device – known internally as Keystone – would plug in to your TV and stream games over the internet.
A games console normally requires powerful and expensive hardware to render game visuals.
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But by streaming the visuals over very fast internet connections from Microsoft servers, it’s possible to play games without a huge console.
This is similar to how Google Stadia works: you pay a subscription and then stream games on a web browser.
Game companies think that as internet speeds improve, it will become even more realistic to stream games online.
So instead of owning games consoles, you’ll simply pay for a Netflix-style subscription to access a library of titles online.
This would probably include Microsoft’s own games, including Halo.
Microsoft already offers a system like this through Xbox Cloud Gaming on mobile.
But the streaming stick hasn’t been released yet.
Xbox Keystone release date and news
There’s still no release date for the Xbox Keystone.
But a recent report from Windows Central revealed that Microsoft was still developing the device.
Microsoft issued a lengthy statement explaining why the process is taking so long.
“Our vision for Xbox Cloud Gaming is unwavering, our goal is to enable people to play the games they want, on the devices they want, anywhere they want,” a Microsoft spokesperson said.
“As announced last year, we’ve been working on a game-streaming device, codename Keystone, that could be connected to any TV or monitor without the need for a console.
“As part of any technical journey, we are constantly evaluating our efforts, reviewing our learnings, and ensuring we are bringing value to our customers.
“We have made the decision to pivot away from the current iteration of the Keystone device.
“We will take our learnings and refocus our efforts on a new approach that will allow us to deliver Xbox Cloud Gaming to more players around the world in the future.”
Microsoft hasn’t revealed exactly when the new gadget will come out.
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And it’s unclear how much it would cost, although it’s sure to be significantly cheaper than an Xbox proper.
The good news is that Microsoft is planning a major Xbox event on June 12, which could feature some gloud gaming updates.
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