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Next-Gen Xbox Could Feature Qualcomm Snapdragon ARM Processor

May 19, 2025 3:00 PM

The potential future of the next-generation Xbox is being discussed, particularly whether it could operate on an ARM-based Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. This speculation gained traction after a Qualcomm job ad hinted at upcoming Surface and Xbox products built on Snapdragon technology. While some experts suggest that an Xbox running on ARM architecture might be plausible, compatibility challenges with existing game libraries and the performance gap compared to current x86 architecture present significant hurdles. The concept of delivering a major technological leap in gaming while keeping costs reasonable adds to the complexity of this potential transition. Insights into Microsoft’s strategy indicate that balancing cutting-edge graphics and backward compatibility will be crucial as they develop the new console in the context of their longer-term vision for Xbox.

Could the next Xbox use ARM architecture for processing power?

Yes, speculation suggests that the next Xbox could potentially use ARM architecture based on job listings and Microsoft's exploration of technology directions; however, compatibility and performance issues pose significant challenges that need to be addressed.

The significance of the Xbox brand continues to evolve, especially as Microsoft explores a variety of devices under the Xbox umbrella, including Surface products capable of running the Xbox app. This diversification indicates that while a traditional console might be changing, the Xbox experience may expand into new hardware solutions in the future. The ongoing discussions about the forthcoming console highlight the interesting intersection of innovation and legacy in gaming technology.



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Samira Khan

Samira Khan is a narrative enthusiast with a keen eye for storytelling in games. Her literary approach to game criticism examines themes, character development, and plot structure, earning her a following among gamers who appreciate the art of narrating.

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Stimpy Stimpy commented on: 2025-05-19 15:12:12
An ARM-based Xbox could shake things up, but I’d hate to see another transition generation where games are stuck in limbo between architectures. That said, if Microsoft nails the optimization, this could be the start of something seriously cool. Honestly, the idea of Xbox blending into more devices like Surface makes sense—imagine a gaming tablet that’s basically a portable Series S. Just hope they don’t sacrifice raw power for the sake of versatility.
N3rdo N3rdo commented on: 2025-05-19 15:06:12
Switching to ARM could be a game-changer for Xbox, but man, the thought of losing backward compatibility hurts my soul. Still, if anyone can pull off that balancing act, it’s Microsoft—they’ve been playing the long game with cloud and cross-platform for years. A Snapdragon-powered Xbox sounds wild, but I’d need to see those performance numbers before getting hyped. Either way, Microsoft’s hardware experiments keep things interesting, even if it’s a risky move.
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