Next Xbox may run full Windows 11 full screen experience, report suggests

Published: 17:32, 07 January 2026
Share this story:
Xbox
Next Xbox may run full Windows 11 full screen experience, report suggests
Next Xbox reportedly built around Windows 11 Full Screen Experience

Key Points from the Article

  • Next Xbox reportedly built around Windows 11 Full Screen Experience, functioning more like a gaming PC while maintaining Xbox interface and supporting multiple storefronts including Steam and Battle.net
  • Backwards compatibility planned for Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S titles, allowing players to access their existing game libraries on new hardware
  • Possible reveal at GDC 2026, but concerns about high production costs may result in premium pricing and potential delay beyond expected 2027-2028 release window
Next Xbox reportedly built around Windows 11 Full Screen Experience

Microsoft is reportedly preparing major Windows 11 Full Screen Experience updates for its next Xbox, with Steam and PC app integration, backwards compatibility, and a possible reveal in 2026.

The next Xbox generation has been slowly starting to take shape, and new reports suggest Microsoft is going much deeper into its Windows ecosystem than ever before. 

Instead of being just another console refresh, the new system is reportedly being built around a full Windows 11 Full Screen Experience, meaning the platform could behave far more like a gaming PC while still keeping that familiar Xbox feel.

At the same time, Microsoft is apparently planning to keep things friendly for current players. Reports hint that Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S titles will still run on the new hardware, which is great news for anyone worried about losing their library or starting over from scratch.

What Microsoft is reportedly planning

According to Windows Central’s Jez Corden, Microsoft is preparing:

  • Major updates to the Windows 11 Full Screen Experience
  • Improvements to the Xbox PC app
  • Support for Steam, Battle.net, and more storefronts
  • A system that still keeps Xbox onboarding and console identity

Backwards compatibility remains important

One of the biggest takeaways is that existing games are expected to work.

  • Xbox One games
  • Xbox Series X/S games
  • Access to your current library

Possible reveal timing and concerns 

We could start hearing more as soon as GDC 2026, so may not be that far away from something official. However, there are also some cautions to go with that. Microsoft has been talking about a very premium, high-end device, and rising RAM/component costs could mean that the next Xbox ends up costing more than many expect.

We’ve even seen rumours of a potential delay beyond the currently expected 2027–2028 timeframe, especially as both console manufacturers adapt to market changes/costs/long term strategy.


​DON'T MISS:

Latest Game News