The Xbox Series X is a powerhouse of a console of a console, giving the PS5 a run for its money in that department; but what if Microsoft turned its attention to the immensely popular Nintendo Switch with a handheld of its own? Like the Xbox Series Z.
A concept video for the handheld Xbox device has surfaced on TikTok, and it looks robust enough to knock Nintendo's hybrid console off its portable pedestal, bringing some Xbox flavour to those dreary commutes.
TikTokker imkashama uploaded a video of the mock-up Xbox Series Z, as they've dubbed it, in action. It joins a number of other designs that are portable takes on existing consoles, like the Xbox Portable and a concept for a new PSP.
- No Nvidia RTX 3080 stock? Console yourself with these strange shoes
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 FE is the cheap Note 21 alternative we've been waiting for
- Google Chrome puts focus on online security in wake of WhatsApp row
Rather than a slate, the device is similar to the 3DS, or the Microsoft Series V portable concept that we saw back in October; the top half is the screen, while the bottom houses the controls, which include two retractable analog sticks so that you can get the feel of an Xbox Series X controller, with a slim profile when it's closed.
A large button with the Xbox logo pops open the handheld when it's pressed, revealing a second, smaller display nestled amidst the controls. The panel can be used to navigate a mini dashboard and boot up games and apps.
While Microsoft doesn't have any designs on entering the handheld gaming market just yet, and it doesn't need to. The rollout of Game Pass Ultimate on Android had allowed gamers to use their mobile devices to play, which can be made even more appealing with the addition of the Designed for Xbox mobile gaming accessories, which are essentially controllers that you can dock your phone with.
@imkashama XBOX Series Z Portable 🕹 #xbox #xboxseries #xboxseriesx #gamingvideos
♬ WUNNA - Gunna
Microsoft is also doubling down with its partnerships with mobile manufacturers like Samsung; the Galaxy S20 series of smartphones got its very own Xbox Game Pass app at launch, giving Galaxy gamers access to expansion packs, DLC, and more, all of which can be purchased through the app, or with redeemable tokens.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
If you're looking for a more powerful handheld experience than what's currently on offer with the the Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite, then 2021 is your year; the Japanese gaming giant is reportedly working on a Nintendo Switch Pro.
Given that the Nintendo Switch was the best-selling console last year, outdoing the PS4 and Xbox One, boosting its lineup with a Pro model with a lower price point that the PS5 and Xbox Series X could see it take the mantle again – especially with the stock issues Sony and Microsoft are battling right now.
Source: Windows Central
Luke is a former news writer at T3 who covered all things tech at T3. Disc golf enthusiast, keen jogger, and fond of all things outdoors (when not indoors messing around with gadgets), Luke wrote about a wide-array of subjects for T3.com, including Android Auto, WhatsApp, Sky, Virgin Media, Amazon Kindle, Windows 11, Chromebooks, iPhones and much more, too.
-
Zwift's new Racing Score powers up competitive virtual cycling
Zwift's new scoring system brings fairer competition, smarter race categories, and more opportunities for every cyclist to improve
By Matt Kollat Published
-
Your Android phone just got a hidden free anti-theft update
This should keep your data safe if your phone is stolen
By Sam Cross Published