only777 said:
I know most people don't want to see an Xbox cost $1000, but I think it's for the best; here's why. I have a theory about the next Xbox console with Microsoft say they are making. First lets add up what we know for sure: 1) They have said it'll be the biggest leap ever in tech terms
2) They are putting their games on PS5/Switch 2 as well
3) Sales for Xbox hardware has fallen off a cliff
4) Some 3rd parties (like Capcom) are starting to skip releasing Xbox versions of games because of the low sales numbers.
and
5) A rather long point, but important. Sony/Nintendo/Xbox sell their consoles at a loss or break even because they make the money back on game sales. This is the current business model and why consoles are cheap to buy considering the bill of materials to make them. If Microsoft release yet another console, same sort of Spec as PS5 Pro/PS6 we know its going to bomb hard, and I'm sure Microsoft know this. I really doubt a handheld device is really a viable business for Microsoft. If they can't get people to buy their home console, why would someone buy their handheld over a Switch 2 or Steamdeck? Also it's worth noting that even the Steamdeck has only sold around 5 million units. So what market if left for Xbox to sell in? I think if they are smart they will create a new market; a premium console market.
They could create a very high powered box and sell for around $1000-$1200.
Now clearly this is not a mass market device, but they have alread failed in that market so why try again? No, I think the only viable business Xbox hardware can be in is a premium market. A high powered box, that gives users access to Gamepass, but also Steam.
Hopefully they could cut some sort of deal with Valve, to get an "Xbox certified" tag added to Steam games much in the same way you have "Steam Deck certified". This way, they can make a profit on the hardware sold rather than on games, because lets face it, they are not making money on Xbox games. | 
