For a few years now, rumors have been circulating that Microsoft has been exploring the creation of some form of live streaming of games in the Xbox cloud using a more affordable dongle, similar to Chromecast and Google Stadia. It was the first state-of-the-art Hobart project. Recently, the code name “Keystone” returns to the Xbox operating system menu, which has led to rumors that Microsoft is still exploring additional hardware for the Xbox line.
We can now confirm that this is true, and that it refers to a modern HDMI streaming device, Xbox Game Pass, and a cloud gaming service. However, Microsoft is exploring additional iterations of the product before launching it.
In a statement provided to Windows Central, a Microsoft spokesman described its commitment to lower Xbox content limits through low-cost hardware, but acknowledged that the current version of Keystone needs more time to bake sooner. of getting started.
“Our vision for Xbox cloud games is consistent and our goal is to allow people to play the games they want, the devices they want and wherever they want. As announced last year, we’ve been working on a a gaming device, codenamed Keystone, that can be connected to any TV or screen without the need for a console, “a Microsoft spokesman said.
“As part of any technology journey, we constantly evaluate our efforts, review what we have learned, and make sure we offer value to our customers. We’ve made the decision to move away from the current iteration of Keystone. We will take advantage of the learning and refocus our efforts on a new approach that will allow us to offer Xbox Cloud Gaming to more players. around the world in the future “.
As far as we understand, Keystone has been in development for two years, and Microsoft continues to complete the product’s feature set.
To speculate, Keystone could run some kind of Windows or a thin Xbox operating system, since “Keystone” originally appeared in the list of operating systems along with various Xbox platforms such as “ERA” and “GameOS”. Using Windows instead of alternatives like Android will allow Microsoft to offer its own streaming media applications like Microsoft Movies & TV. While using Android OSP may be a faster way to market, it’s based on apps like Netflix and possibly Spotify.
Keystone’s exact timeline isn’t clear yet, but I don’t expect to see it soon, especially not on Xbox and Bethesda Showcase coming June 12th.
The low-cost playback device makes sense from a business perspective, as Microsoft is pushing for the Xbox Game Pass to be available to more families who aren’t interested in having a full console. As Microsoft previously hinted at bringing TV application files to Xbox Cloud Gaming as well, which will further reduce the barrier. Either way, I’m excited to see what “Keystone” will look like once it’s ready.