Rumor: Next Xbox console could be released in 2026

For Xbox enthusiasts, at least, the next generation of consoles might be closer than we initially imagined. TheGhostofHope, a Call of Duty insider, has leaked new information suggesting that the upcoming Xbox system may ship in late 2026 with Call of Duty among its launch titles.

Actually, there have been previous rumors that a console release in late 2026 is imminent. The story was initially reported by YouTuber RedGamingTech in December 2023. RedGamingTech also mentioned that since Zen 6 wouldn’t be released in time, Microsoft might decide to go with an AMD Ryzen Zen 5 processor. According to the same report, Microsoft will stick with a single SKU instead of the dual SKU approach that was employed this generation with the Series S and X.

The objective is to attempt to replicate the Xbox 360, which debuted a year ahead of Sony’s PlayStation 3 and benefited from this tactic, as it was the most successful Xbox generation to date. The Xbox 360 sold 84 million units as of 2014, compared to just 24 million for the original device and a stalling sales figure of roughly 58 million for the Xbox One. There are just over 27 million units in the Series S and X pair.

Although entering the market before its primary rival is a dangerous move, Microsoft has few other options given its dismal console sales performance. It’s interesting to note that Microsoft is concentrating on making its largest technological advancement to date with the upcoming device, according to Xbox President Sarah Bond. It’s true that this calls for unique games that have the ability to wow. Furthermore, using just the next generation visuals won’t go you very far.

In order to accomplish this, Microsoft is probably going to forgo a mid-generation update in favor of concentrating on a potent next-generation console that will debut at the end of 2026 (unlike Sony, who is anticipated to deliver the PS5 Pro later this year with a potential announcement in the following weeks). Microsoft may then drop the price to be competitive because Sony is unlikely to deploy the PlayStation 6 until 2027 or even 2028. A mid-generation refresh for the upcoming Xbox is also probably in the works, given that the PS6 will have more power if it releases a year or two later.

It’s also quite risky because it’s unlikely that many console gamers would find the short lifespan of the current generation very impressive. especially now that Xbox games are being released by Microsoft on the PS5 and Switch.