Xbox Keystone: Cancelled Console Design Unveiled in Patent

A recently unearthed patent offers a glimpse into the design of the cancelled Xbox Keystone console. While previously hinted at by Phil Spencer, this budget-friendly streaming device may never see the light of day.

During the Xbox One era, Microsoft explored various strategies to recapture lapsed players. This included the launch of Xbox Game Pass, a service that has since expanded significantly and continues with the Xbox Series X/S. Prior to Game Pass, Games with Gold provided free games, a service discontinued in 2023 alongside the introduction of Game Pass's tiered subscription model. Following Game Pass's success, Xbox hinted at a dedicated console for cloud-streaming Game Pass content. A newly discovered patent reveals the planned design and functionality of this device.

Windows Central recently uncovered the patent for the Xbox Keystone, a streaming device comparable to Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV Stick. The patent includes several images, showcasing a circular top reminiscent of the Xbox Series S. The front features an Xbox power button and a presumed USB port. The rear panel includes Ethernet and HDMI ports, along with an oval port likely for the power supply. A side-mounted button facilitates controller pairing, while ventilation slots are located on the back and bottom. A circular base elevates the device for optimal airflow.

Why the Xbox Keystone's Cancellation?

Microsoft has been conducting xCloud testing since 2019, a process likely intended to optimize the Keystone's performance. The projected retail price was between $99 and $129, a target Microsoft apparently couldn't achieve. This suggests the technology needed to stream Game Pass games via xCloud exceeded the budget. Considering Xbox consoles are often sold at cost or even at a loss, producing the Keystone for under $129 proved insurmountable. However, future technological advancements may make this concept viable.

Given Phil Spencer's past comments, the Keystone's existence wasn't a closely guarded secret. While seemingly abandoned, the project's core concept could influence future Xbox initiatives.