It seems like Microsoft is preparing for a mid generation refresh of the Xbox Series X and S consoles for release during August and October 2024, respectively.
According to leaked documents from the FTC, the upgraded Series X console is codenamed Brooklin and is digital-only, similar to the current Xbox Series S. Instead of a rectangular console, Brooklin is shaped like a cylinder. As for its specifications, the documents lists that it boasts 12 teraflops with 4K resolution with 16GB of RAM. Additionally, it will have 2TB of storage, which is generous considering that the console is digital-only.
Microsoft also seems to plan to market the new console’s sustainability. The documents note that it reduces PSU supply by 15% and has a new low-power standby mode that is 20% of the current iteration’s standby mode. Furthermore, the console comes in 100% recyclable packaging.
The Xbox Series S also looks like it’ll be receiving a mid-generation refresh too. Its codename is Ellewood and offers 10GB of RAM. According to the leaked documents, Microsoft is planning on announcing Ellewood and Brooklin simultaneously around summer 2024, which indicates that it could be a Summer Games Fest reveal.
The leaked timeline also notes that Ellewood is scheduled to launch at the end of August 2024, while Brooklin will launch at the end of October 2024. Both will launch at the same price as their current Series X and S counterparts: USD$300 and $500 respectively. Microsoft's reasoning for the two-month release gap between the consoles is that Ellewood would have its own “moment” to shine before Brooklin takes over the holiday timeframe.
Microsoft also seems to have a new Xbox controller in the works, codenamed Sebile. Notably, it features an accelerometer inside for gyro support. It’s scheduled to be announced during Q4 of fiscal year 2024 and launch at the end of May 2024 for USD$70.
This info comes from the FTC and its latest trial against Microsoft regarding its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. It’s important to note that Microsoft has not publicly announced any sort of mid-generation refresh. Last month, Xbox chief Phil Spencer even said that there is no need for a mid-gen refresh at the moment. However, plans can always change.
George Yang is a freelance writer for IGN. He's been writing about the industry since 2019 and has worked with other publications such as Insider, Kotaku, NPR, and Variety. When not writing about video games, George is playing video games. What a surprise! You can follow him on Twitter @Yinyangfooey
