The Xbox Series X and Series S are not even five years old yet, but already there's talk of Microsoft releasing a new console in the coming year. This week, Call of Duty insider TheGhostOfHope claimed that the next Xbox console is supposedly launching in 2026 and will supposedly be called "Xbox Prime." They admitted that they were unsure if Xbox Prime was just a code name or if it would be the name of the actual console.
As it turns out, it doesn't really matter all that much because the rumor was false. Not long after the post, notable Xbox and Microsoft insider Jez Corden responded, claiming that it's not true.
In a follow-up post, TheGhostOfHope expressed worries that Microsoft lawyers could show up at their door for leaking the name. Corden stepped in and shot down the rumor, saying they had no reason to be worried since "it's not true."
Corden did acknowledge that Microsoft is working on new Xbox hardware, but there's nothing in development called "Xbox Prime" that's slated to launch in 2026.
"This whole thing is made up," he added in response to another user's question.
This doesn't necessarily mean Microsoft won't release a new console in 2026. Even Corden acknowledged that a new Xbox in 2026 "could happen" as "12 months is a huge landing strip."
At this point, it's unclear exactly what Microsoft's plans for Xbox are moving forward. Right now, Microsoft appears focused on cloud streaming and "gaming anywhere." In November, Microsoft launch its new "This is an Xbox" campaign. Microsoft's goal for the future is to making gaming easily accessible and available for everyone, whether they have an Xbox console, a PC, a mobile device, or a smart TV.
"This Is an Xbox invites people to play with Xbox across multiple devices and screens," the company explained. "It showcases the evolution of Xbox as a platform that extends across devices, with bold, iconic, fun visuals and a light-hearted tone. Launching today, the campaign will come to life in a variety of ways."
Although Phil Spencer suggested that consoles are still part of Microsoft's Xbox future, it's clear that the company is going all-in on cloud gaming. Furthermore, there are reports that a new handheld Xbox console could be released alongside the next home console, with Spencer confirming that prototypes are in the works.
Will they be ready by 2026 though? That's only six years after the launch of the Xbox Series X and Series S. The fourth generation of Xbox has been a bit of a disappointment from a sales perspective, so it wouldn't be terribly surprising to see Microsoft try and get the jump on the next console generation.