Phil Spencer Says Xbox Handheld is “Years Away;” No “Red Lines” for Xbox Games on Other Platforms

After teasing a potential handheld Xbox device earlier this year, Xbox Head Phil Spencer has now shared more details about the device. While still in its early stages, Spencer confirmed that prototypes are being developed, and the hardware team is actively analyzing market trends to shape their vision for the device.

Speaking to Bloomberg, he emphasized that any potential handheld Xbox device is still “years away” from release, reflecting the careful approach Microsoft is taking. “I’ve asked our hardware team to develop its vision based on what it learns,” Spencer said.

In the same interview, Spencer discussed Xbox’s current direction and shared insights into the future of its games on other platforms. Based on what he said, it seems clear that Indiana Jones and The Great Circle won’t be the last Xbox exclusive to appear on Sony’s console. His comments suggest a growing openness to bringing Xbox games to other platforms, signaling a shift in strategy.

When asked specifically about the future of Xbox’s exclusives, Spencer took the opportunity to clarify the company’s evolving approach. Although previous reports suggested that certain franchises, such as Gears of War and Halo, were off-limits for other platforms, his recent statements indicate otherwise.

He said, “I do not see sort of red lines in our portfolio that say ‘thou must not.’” This shift was further emphasized when he addressed Halo, stating, “It’s too early to make any sort of decision on the next version of Halo,” leaving the door open for the possibility of the Master Chief saga appearing on Sony’s consoles.

Spencer also spoke about the growing trend toward platform openness, emphasizing user and creator freedom. “I think the ball is moving in the right direction,” Spencer said. “I think this idea of open platforms, where users have more choice, creators have more choice, you see the momentum, right?”

Spencer concluded by addressing questions about the company’s overall health, especially after a year marked by repeated layoffs. When asked how he felt about the outlook for 2025, he struck a confident tone: “The Xbox business has never been more healthy,” he said. “The business is performing right now, and I think that means a more healthy future for hardware and the games we build.”

More MP1st Reading:

• Report: IGN Instructed and Even Offered Prizes for Crowd to Cheer During Phil Spencer and Other Live Interviews
• It Looks Like Former PlayStation CEO Shawn Layden Was Baited to Mock Xbox Boss Phil Spencer
• Yakuza Creator Toshihiro Nagoshi Says Game Size Will Soon Stop Being Important to Players

Thanks, Jason Schreier!

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