Scrapped Xbox Console's Design Unveiled in Patent

A recently unearthed patent offers a glimpse into the design of the canceled Xbox Keystone console. While hinted at by Phil Spencer, this budget-friendly streaming device may never see the light of day.

During the Xbox One era, Microsoft explored various strategies to recapture lapsed gamers. This included the launch of Xbox Game Pass, a service that has since flourished and continues with the Xbox Series X/S. Prior to Game Pass, Games With Gold provided free games; however, this program concluded in 2023, coinciding with Game Pass's expansion to multiple subscription tiers. Following Game Pass's success, Microsoft considered a dedicated console for cloud-streaming Game Pass content. A newly discovered patent reveals the device's intended design and functionality.

Windows Central recently uncovered the patent for the Xbox Keystone, a streaming device akin to Apple TV or an Amazon Fire TV Stick. The patent showcases several images. A top-down view reveals a circular pattern reminiscent of the Xbox Series S. The front features an Xbox power button and a rectangular port, likely a USB connection. The rear panel includes Ethernet and HDMI ports, along with an oval port for the power supply. A side-mounted button facilitates controller pairing, and ventilation slots are located on the back and bottom. A circular base elevates the device for optimal airflow.

The Keystone's Cancellation: Why No Release?

Microsoft has been conducting xCloud testing since 2019, a process that likely aimed to optimize the Keystone's performance. The intended retail price was between $99 and $129, a target Microsoft apparently couldn't meet. This suggests the technology needed to stream Xbox Game Pass games via xCloud exceeded the projected cost. Considering Xbox consoles often launch at or near their manufacturing cost, producing the Keystone for under $129 proved challenging. However, future technological advancements may make such a device economically feasible.

Given Phil Spencer's past comments, the Keystone wasn't a closely guarded secret. Although seemingly shelved, the project's underlying concepts might influence future Xbox endeavors.