For a few years, rumors have persisted that Microsoft was planning to create some form of streaming stick to offer Xbox Cloud Gaming via a more affordable dongle, similar to Chromecast and Google Stadia. The first clue was the Hobart project. More recently, a codename “Keystone” appeared in an Xbox OS listing, igniting rumors that Microsoft was continuing to explore additional hardware for the Xbox lineup.
We can now confirm that this is indeed true, and it concerns a modernized HDMI streaming device that runs Xbox Game Pass and its cloud gaming service. Microsoft plans to explore additional iterations of the product before releasing it, however.
In a statement provided to Windows Central, a Microsoft spokesperson outlined their commitment to lowering Xbox content limits through low-cost hardware, while acknowledging that the existing version of Keystone needs a bit more time. to cook before being put online.
“Our vision for Xbox Cloud Gaming is unwavering, our goal is to empower people to play the games they want, on the devices they want, where they want. As announced last year, we have been working on a a game-streaming device, codenamed Keystone, that could be connected to any TV or monitor without the need for a console,” a Microsoft spokesperson said.
“As part of any technical journey, we are constantly evaluating our efforts, reviewing our learnings, and ensuring that we deliver value to our customers. We have made the decision to move 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 bring Xbox Cloud Gaming to more gamers around the world in the future.
From what we understand, Keystone has been in development for a few years as Microsoft continues to finalize the product’s feature set.
To speculate, Keystone could possibly run some sort of lite Windows or Xbox operating system, given that “Keystone” originally appeared in a list of operating systems alongside the various Xbox platforms such as “ERA ” and “GameOS”. Using Windows instead of alternatives like Android would allow Microsoft to offer its own streaming media apps like Microsoft Movies & TV. However, using Android OSP would potentially be a faster route to market, relying on apps like Netflix and perhaps Spotify.
Keystone’s exact timing remains unclear, but I wouldn’t expect to see it anytime soon – especially not at the Xbox and Bethesda showcase being held on June 12.
A low-cost streaming device makes sense from a business perspective as Microsoft works to bring Xbox Game Pass to more households who may not be interested in owning a full-fledged console . Microsoft has also already hinted at the possibility of bringing TV apps to Xbox Cloud Gaming as well, which would lower the barrier even further. Either way, I’m excited to see what “Keystone” will look like in action once it’s ready.
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