REPORT: Leaked Pics Show White Xbox Series X Sans Disc Drive

Recently, images have surfaced showcasing a white Xbox Series X, hinting at a new digital-only console version in the same vein as the Xbox Series S. Notable for its absence of a disc drive, the white Xbox Series X appears to boast the same external chassis as its black counterpart but features a different internal heatsink which could suggest other hardware revisions. Published initially by Exputer and later substantiated by The Verge, these images align with leaked FTC documents mentioning Microsoft's plans for a mid-generation upgrade of their gaming consoles. Microsoft insider Brad Sams indicates that this new variant would not see a performance boost over the black Xbox Series X.

This digital-only Xbox Series X is rumored to hit the market in mid-2024, specifically June or July, and it's expected to come with a lower price point than the current model. The information dovetails with a previous leak from September 2023, which alluded to digital-only mid-gen refreshes for both the Xbox Series S (Ellewood) and Series X (Brooklin), with the former targeting an August 2024 release and the latter in October 2024. If the white Xbox Series X does indeed launch this summer, this signals a potential shift in Microsoft's strategy. It's worth noting that Microsoft's Phil Spencer called these plans outdated, and the company has also announced a commitment to developing a next-generation console.

Is the white Xbox Series X an upgrade in terms of performance compared to the black Xbox Series X?
nNo, according to insider Brad Sams, the white Xbox Series X will not feature a performance boost over the black model, as it shares the same chassis and is expected to have similar specifications.

The Xbox Series X and S are Microsoft's entry into the next generation of gaming, offering powerful specs and a variety of features including backward compatibility with a vast library of Xbox games. The introduction of a digital-only white Xbox Series X demonstrates a continued industry trend toward disc-less gaming options, providing consumers with a choice that fits their preferences for either physical media or digital content. The Xbox Series X, launched in November 2020, has been well-received for its performance, load times, and quiet operation.