As Microsoft’s upcoming cloud game streaming hardware, we got some details about the Xbox Keystone a few months ago. While the Redmond tech giant confirmed it is still developing the device, the first internal iteration has been put on hold. Then today, Windows Central brought something new. The Xbox Keystone, for example, will be positioned more as a cloud-powered home console than as “streaming stick” hardware.
The version currently in development is said to have a boxy shape and an Xbox Series X-like top cover design, but slashed to a few inches in thickness. If it goes well, it could be the smallest Xbox console ever made.
In terms of software, it is expected that Xbox Keystone will be pre-installed with a streamlined version of the Windows operating system + support for the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate cloud gaming solution, supplemented by Netflix, Disney+ and Microsoft’s own bundles of film and television resources.
Connectivity-wise, it should be able to connect various peripherals via the USB port. On the network side, the Xbox Keystone may have an Ethernet port + Wi-Fi 5 wireless network adapter.
While Wi-Fi 6’s bandwidth boost is significant, the former is more than enough for a 1080p 60fps gaming experience. As for whether Microsoft will promote the 4K game streaming experience when the Xbox Keystone is officially released, it is currently unknown.
Additionally, the report speculates that Microsoft may be working on a streaming solution that would allow players to stream any digital version of the game purchased on the Xbox Store. However, there may still be some obstacles in order to hitch a ride on xCloud smoothly.
Finally, Microsoft is likely to set an attractive price for the Xbox Keystone, say as low as $99. The monthly fee for an XGP Ultimate subscription is $15.
However, in the early days of the rollout (or launch in 2023), it may be limited to specific regions that support Xbox cloud gaming, but it depends on how long Microsoft is in the process of brewing.