Xbox Project Helix: CEO Asha Sharma Confirms an Entire Family of Devices

It's official: The next major Xbox endeavor, previously known under the codename “Project Helix”, will not be a single device, but an entire product family. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma confirmed this in an interview with the BBC on the sidelines of gamescom.

According to several consistent reports, Sharma stated that they are working on a “great next generation and a great family of devices” for Xbox – and that efficiency and affordability are just as important as raw performance.

What Exactly is Xbox Project Helix?

Project Helix is the internal codename for Microsoft's next major Xbox hardware generation. Previously, it was unclear whether it would be a classic successor console, a PC hybrid, or a pure handheld concept. With Sharma's statement, it's now at least clear: There won't be just one device, but multiple variants for different budgets and playstyles – similar to how Xbox already pioneered this with the division into Series S and Series X, but more consistently thought through.

Why is Xbox now betting on multiple devices instead of a single console?

This isn't an entirely new strategy in itself: The current generation already deliberately separates entry-level and performance audiences with Series S and Series X. What's new, however, is how clearly Sharma identifies the economic situation as a driving factor. The industry is currently grappling with rising hardware costs, more expensive chips, and a customer base that, after years of price increases for consoles and games, is becoming increasingly price-sensitive. The fact that the Xbox boss herself puts “affordability” so prominently in the foreground can also be read as a reaction to the growing competition from PC handhelds and cloud gaming services, which are increasingly putting classic consoles under pressure. For gamers, this could ultimately mean: more choice at the entry price, but likely still a premium model for those who want maximum performance.

Sharma has not yet revealed specific prices, release dates, or technical specifications for the individual devices in the Helix family. Microsoft is expected to unveil further details at a later date.

Source: Video Games Chronicle, Pure Xbox

What do you expect from the Xbox device family: Prefer multiple affordable options or one powerful console for everyone? Discuss with us in the comments!