Leaked Patent Hints at Discontinued Xbox Console Design

A recently unearthed patent offers a glimpse into the design of the cancelled Xbox Keystone console. While previously hinted at by Phil Spencer, this budget-friendly streaming device never materialized.

Microsoft explored various strategies during the Xbox One era to recapture lapsed gamers. This included the launch of Xbox Game Pass, a service that has significantly expanded and continues on the Xbox Series X/S. Prior to Game Pass, Games With Gold provided free titles, a program discontinued in 2023 alongside the introduction of multiple Game Pass subscription tiers. Since Game Pass's inception, Xbox has alluded to a dedicated console for cloud-streaming its game library. A newly discovered patent reveals this console's potential design and functionality.

Windows Central recently uncovered details of the Xbox Keystone, envisioned as a streaming device akin to Apple TV or Amazon's Fire TV Stick. The patent showcased multiple images, including a top-down view revealing a circular pattern reminiscent of the Xbox Series S. The front panel displayed an Xbox power button and what appears to be a USB port. The rear featured an Ethernet port, an HDMI port, and an oval-shaped power port. A side-mounted button facilitated controller pairing, while ventilation slots were located on the back and bottom. A circular base raised the device for optimal airflow.

The Keystone's Unreleased Status:

Microsoft has been testing its xCloud streaming service since 2019, a beta period likely intended to optimize the Keystone's performance. The console's projected price point was between $99 and $129, a target Microsoft apparently couldn't meet. This suggests the technology needed to stream Xbox Game Pass titles via xCloud exceeded the intended cost. Considering Xbox consoles often launch at cost or even at a loss, producing the Keystone at or below $129 proved insurmountable. However, future price reductions in relevant technology could potentially revive the project.

Given Phil Spencer's past comments, the Keystone's existence wasn't entirely confidential. While seemingly shelved, the project's underlying concept might still inform future Xbox initiatives.