Multiple real-life images purported to depict an unannounced Xbox Series X model have emerged online. The pictures correspond with some recent rumors suggesting that Microsoft is working on a disc-less version of the Xbox Series X.

Rumors of a mid-gen Xbox hardware refresh have been circulating the industry since 2023. One of the most recent developments on that front was a late February report from eXputer, which alleged that Microsoft is working on an all-white and digital-only Xbox Series X.

A month later, eXputer procured some images that appear to substantiate its original reporting. Two of the leaked pictures depict the rumored console from the back, while another one offers a front view of the device. The most significant implications arising from the leak are that the console will indeed be white and lack an optical disc drive. eXputer's February 2024 report also alleged that the white Xbox Series X will boast some minor component upgrades, such as an improved heatsink.

All-white design
No disc drive
1 TB storage
Minor component improvements, including the heatsink and Nexus card
Priced in the ballpark of $400
Likely to debut in June or July 2024

The newly surfaced images do not align with the original sighting of a new Xbox Series X model, which was recorded in September 2023, courtesy of some poorly redacted FTC documentation emerging from the regulator's legal battle with Microsoft over the now-finalized Activision Blizzard acquisition. That mishap publicized a high-resolution render of a disc-less Xbox Series X concept that was black and cylindrical instead of white and rectangular. The same document also revealed that the console's internal codename was "Brooklin." The original Xbox Series X and Series S were code-named Anaconda and Lockhart, respectively, whereas the entire lineup was internally designated as Scarlett.

Newly Leaked Xbox Series X Model May Not be the 'Brooklin'
Since Microsoft itself indirectly confirmed the legitimacy of the FTC leak, the mismatch between the cylindrical console render and the newly leaked images, assuming they are taken at face value, can be reasonably explained in two ways; one is that Microsoft simply opted for a different design, perhaps in order to minimize the costs of repurposing its manufacturing lines in order to accommodate a new Xbox Series X model. The other potential explanation is that this newly leaked console isn't the Brooklin, which the FTC leak revealed was only planned to release in November 2025.

But Microsoft is seemingly gearing up to introduce another gaming system way sooner. That's according to a new Xbox model dev kit that was recently certified in South Korea, identified by model number 2089. For reference, the Xbox Series X and Series S dev kits passed the certification process in the Far Eastern country just three months ahead of their September 2020 announcements. Assuming Microsoft sticks with that pattern, the previously confirmed June 2024 Xbox Games Showcase seems like an apt opportunity for the company to reveal its new console model.




Posted: Mar 31, 2024 12:28 am
Related Forum: Xbox Forum

Source: https://gamerant.com/xbox-series-x-white-disc-less-model-images-photo-leak/