14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is trying to become a bigger player in the hardware industry and in addition to the Surface and Lumia lineups, the company is also looking into ways to expand its gaming console portfolio.
A new report coming from Petri reveals that Microsoft is planning to launch a lightweight Xbox One version next year that could be positioned as a direct competitor to the Apple TV.
Only little is known at this point, but this isn't the first time when Microsoft is pondering the release of a slimmed-down Xbox One. Back in 2013, when the company rolled out the Xbox One, plans for a light version were on the table as well, but at that point, Microsoft's leadership team decided to wait a little bit longer until the flagship model gains ground and only then to release it.
Much more affordable
Now Microsoft considers that 2016 is the right moment to introduce the slimmed down Xbox One, mostly because it'll run Windows 10 and come with some specific features that will help it compete against the Apple TV.
The lightweight Xbox One might not run full games, but only titles posted in the Windows Store, and offer a mix of gaming and streaming capabilities. This way, Microsoft is aiming to conquer the living room with a more affordable device. As far as pricing is concerned, there are no specifics right now, but it's believed the new Xbox will be “much more affordable” than the current model. The cheapest Apple TV with 32 GB of storage retails for $149 (110 EUR).
The launch of the new version is expected to take place in the second half of the next year, so it could arrive at about the same time as the next-generation Surface tablets and laptops. If this is the case, Microsoft could be planning a new “October 6 hardware event” that brings us a plethora of new devices during a single conference.