Will the following Xbox run Home windows? We spoke with a former Xbox supervisor

Xbox and Home windows have all the time been siblings below the Microsoft company umbrella. However not too long ago they’ve gotten lots nearer, with the Xbox Recreation Go that includes tons of PC video games and the Asus ROG Xbox Ally—a Home windows-powered system—getting that official Xbox branding. However what’s the following step? Adam requested former Xbox workforce member Mike Danseglio on the most recent PCWorld YouTube video.

To be extra particular, Xbox consoles are typically operating some type of Home windows software program as a base, however with so many layers, optimizations, and interface modifications that it’s unimaginable to inform from a person perspective. And crucially, an Xbox solely runs Xbox video games—you’ll be able to’t load up revealed PC video games or different Home windows software program on the console.

Mike thinks a customizable Xbox console, operating Home windows with an Xbox interface and with some customized {hardware} choices, would make extra sense now. Let Xbox be the interface, not the closed-down console. Microsoft has already been leaning this fashion with its “That is an Xbox” marketing campaign. You’ll be able to nonetheless protect the Xbox expertise whereas permitting superior customers the choice to customise their units.

Is that more likely to occur? In all probability not. Whereas it appears possible that Xbox and Home windows will get even nearer within the close to future, merely making Xbox into an alternate “pores and skin” for Home windows might be a bridge too far for the type of firm Microsoft is true now. I’d like to be unsuitable about that. In any case, Microsoft wants an edge within the console market as Sony and Nintendo proceed to dominate.

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