AMD CEO tips 2027 as next Xbox console release date, while denying Steam Machine delay

Despite uncertainty surrounding upcoming gaming systems, AMD CEO Lisa Su downplayed the chance of delays. She provided an update on the next Xbox console and the Steam Machine, both of which rely on the chipmaker’s components. Microsoft’s hardware is targeting a 2027 release date. Meanwhile, Valve is prepared to ship its SteamOS cube early in 2026.

As reported by Wario64 on social media and GamesBeat, Su made the comments during a February 3rd earnings call. She explained:

From a product standpoint, Valve is on-track to begin shipping its AMD-powered Steam Machine early this year, and development of Microsoft’s next-gen Xbox featuring an AMD semi-custom SoC is progressing well to support a launch in 2027.

Rumors had suggested that a new Xbox console would debut in the window discussed by the AMD boss. However, rising memory prices have led insiders to wonder whether Microsoft will stick to that schedule. Xbox President Sarah Bond already labeled the device as “very premium”, raising doubts about its affordability.

When it’s ready, the system should feature an AMD Magnus APU with an 11-core Zen 6 CPU and RDNA 5 support. Expected to be a console/PC hybrid, the configuration may demand 36GB or more of GDDR7 RAM. Given the effect of the memory shortage on the GPU market, the console could stretch budgets.

Positive news for Steam Machine fans too

Steam Machine specs are lower-end in comparison, highlighted by an AMD Zen 4 processor. The Linux-based box would still offer 4K connectivity, despite adopting the RDNA 3 architecture. Regardless, amid astronomical DDR5 costs, analysts speculated that Valve may delay its Q1 2026 release.

It’s important to note that Su didn’t guarantee that the next Xbox console would arrive in 2027. Development of its chipset is advancing quickly, but other factors threaten that timeline.

Some critics have questioned whether Microsoft should continue to sell hardware at all. The downfall of the Xbox Series X|S contributed to a noticeable decline in gaming revenue. It remains to be seen whether the company’s investment in a more expensive system is wise.