Microsoft Xbox Refresh and Next-Gen leaked through FTC vs. Microsoft case documents
Despite what the Microsoft team has been saying XBOX Series is heading for a refresh. The legal documents from the ongoing FTC vs. Microsoft case have included an attachment that no one at Xbox wanted the world to see, a full disclosure of the upcoming console refresh and much more.
Xbox Series Refresh: Brooklin and Ellewood
Xbox Series X Refresh “Brooklin”, Source: Microsoft/US Courts
Starting with the refresh, the console codenamed “Brooklin,” an iteration of the Xbox Series X, is now slated for an October 2024 launch. It is reported to include a 6nm die shrink of the existing APU with Zen2/RDNA2 architecture. This console aims to deliver ‘4K Gen9 console gaming’ with enhanced on-board Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and a completely fresh rounded design. Furthermore, these Brooklin updates are rumored to incorporate a USB Type-C connector at the front.
Simultaneously, the Xbox Series S is also undergoing a refresh under the codename “Ellewood” while retaining the current console’s design. Microsoft is introducing enhancements like an upgraded controller and support for new connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and BT 5.2.
Xbox Series S Refresh “Ellewood”, Source: Microsoft/US Courts
Concerning Brooklin, Microsoft’s focus is on specific improvements. The PSU power has been reduced by 15%, and a new low-power stage has been introduced, requiring only 20% of the current Xbox Series S standby mode power.
Microsoft aims to maintain the same price point for this console as the Xbox Series X ($499) while upgrading storage to 2TB. This all-digital Brooklin experience does not include a disc reader. The Ellewood console is also expected to launch at the same price point as the existing model, which is $299.
Xbox Series Refresh, Source: Microsoft/US Courts
The consoles are getting a new controller listed as “Sebile”. This controller will support rechargeable and removable battery and ‘increase immersion’.
Xbox Wireless 2 controller “Sebile”, Source: Microsoft/US Courts
Next-Gen Xbox: Zen6 and RDNA5
More importantly, some details about the upcoming next-generation Xbox console have been leaked as well. The console is rumored to potentially feature either an ARM64 or AMD64-based CPU, with the latter being Zen6. The leaked roadmap included in the presentation indicates that a decision is pending on whether to opt for ARM or X64 architectures.
Additionally, the new Xbox is expected to come equipped with a GPU incorporating AMD IP based on Navi 5 (RDNA5). The documents suggest that Microsoft may either collaborate with AMD to design a chip or utilize their license for Navi 5 graphics. The latter option seems more likely if the ARM64 chip is chosen over the Zen6 APU.
Microsoft’s plans for the console also involve incorporating an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), providing a programmable machine learning processor that developers can use for flexible applications. Furthermore, it has been revealed that the GPU should be capable of supporting Next-Gen DirectX Raytracing, which presumably refers to an updated iteration of the existing DXR implementation.
Next-Gen Xbox, Source: Microsoft/US Courts
An interesting slide delves into the upcoming integration of machine learning within next-generation gaming consoles. This integration encompasses features such as super resolution and frame interpolation, all of which are key components of AI-powered tasks. Microsoft is actively pursuing the incorporation of AI across various aspects of gaming, including game testing, physics simulations, and even dialogue generation. Notably, NVIDIA has recently showcased remarkable advancements in dialogue generation using AI, indicating a promising and innovative path for the future of gaming.
The new consoles should launch in 2028, Microsoft is currently deciding on the ARM64 or Zen6 architectures.
Next-Gen Xbox, Source: Microsoft/US Courts
Source: US Courts via @Wario64
