Xbox is in a precarious spot at the moment. In addition to droves of layoffs, Xbox Game Pass has raised its prices, and hardware prices have spiked, alongside price hikes from Sony and Nintendo.

Fans might have something to look forward to in 2026, though. Windows Central is reporting that there will be new Xbox hardware this year, and you’d better get saving.

Xbox Is Releasing New Hardware This Year, Apparently

Brace Yourselves

Based on the report, new Xbox hardware is on the horizon. Now, Microsoft wouldn’t launch a brand-new console already, but it’s possible we’ll get an iterative version of the current generation at some point. For now, the report suggests it will be another controller model: the Xbox Elite Series 3.

While details are slim on what to expect from the Elite Series 3, one kernel of info teases that it could support “direct-to-WiFi connectivity, eliminating Bluetooth latency from cloud gaming scenarios.” This could be huge for plug-and-play functionality, especially since Xbox controllers have become de facto remotes for platforms other than Xbox consoles.

Additional details aren’t known, but we can expect improved grip/ergonomics, as well as more macro support. Other potential hardware options include another device similar to the Xbox Ally, or even a new hardware SKU based on the Series X/S generation.

As we know, RAM prices and availability are dire right now, which could impact the entire next-generation release window for Xbox and PS5. It’s likely that even if Microsoft has something grand planned, it could take even longer to come out due to RAM shortages and global supply chain issues. After all, Microsoft needs to mass-produce these models in the millions.

There’s No Way This Comes Cheap, Get Saving

All Hardware Is Expensive Now

If it is indeed a controller, keep in mind that these things do not come cheap, even after years in circulation. Currently, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is going for a whopping $199.99 MSRP, which is currently on sale for $157.95. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 1 is out of circulation, but can be purchased for roughly $100 on the secondhand market.

It stands to reason that a potential Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 3 could be slightly more pricey than the current model, while the second series subsequently fades out, similar to the first.

In any case, get saving. New Xbox hardware is going to be pricey, especially if it adds functionality not present in anything else before it. For newcomers, the prospect of buying in is even scarier, given the price bumps on existing hardware.

Brand

Xbox

Original Release Date

November 10, 2020

Original MSRP (USD)

Series X priced at US$499 and the Series S priced at US$299

Weight

9.8 lb