- The next Xbox console will apparently have no GPU or APU customization at all.
- It will possibly feature standard RDNA 5 graphics and Zen 6/6c CPU cores.
- The console will still run the FSR Diamond family of upscaling and frame generation transformer models.
Credible analysts and rumors in the past have already suggested that Xbox’s next-gen console will be more of a PC than a console in terms of experience. However, new information affirms that the brand is completely moving away from the unique feel of consoles.
Project Helix will apparently feature no custom GPU or APU, essentially moving away from the unique console silicon that made the past consoles stand out. This shift is the complete opposite strategy to what Sony is planning for PlayStation 6.
Why it matters: Xbox moving away from custom console hardware in the next generation marks the end of an era for the giant. The console will truly feel like a PC experience wrapped in the brand’s coating; it won’t be comparable to the PS6 in any way.
This rumor comes from insider KeplerL2 on NeoGAF, who clarifies that Microsoft is vying for 0 APU customizations this time around.
The console will likely use standard AMD RDNA 5 graphics and Zen 6/6c CPU cores, something akin to the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and Ryzen Z2 used by the latest high-end gaming handhelds.
In other words, this would make it feel like a traditional PC with Xbox’s paint coating. However, Kepler does mention that the lack of GPU customization will still allow Project Helix to utilize AMD FSR 5.
Therefore, features like FSR Diamond frame generation, upscalers, and transformation models built for RDNA 5 will be usable, as the technology is essentially cross-platform.
Regardless, Microsoft appears to have no plans to move on from consoles after Project Helix, so we may see a more traditional console after the upcoming generation. It is expected to cost in the $1000 price range.
In other news, Project Helix’s alpha development kits will reportedly reach developers by early 2027, and rumors also suggest both Microsoft and Sony aim to launch their consoles in the holiday period next year.
Do you think the next-gen Project Helix will stand out despite having no custom silicone advantages? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or join the discussion on the Tech4Gamers forum.
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Shameer Sarfaraz has previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, he loves to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games. Besides his passion for breaking news stories, Shahmeer loves spending his leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited his articles.
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