Insider expects PC-like new Xbox console but doubts Call of Duty 2026 dev kit rumors

Gamers continue to speculate about what a new Xbox console might look like. Even with the Series X struggling, Phil Spencer insists Microsoft hasn't given up on console development. While some rumors have focused on a handheld, an industry insider describes the next Xbox as a TV-friendly PC. 

On a Xbox Two Podcast, Jez Corden commented on reports about a future Call of Duty game being tested on a new Xbox console dev kit. While Corden doubted any kit existed, he stressed how simple the system is to develop for. The console would function like a Windows PC without proprietary software and hardware. As a result, it's more likely that Call of Duty 2026 developers possess a spec sheet rather than a prototype. 

Corden believes that Microsoft's next gaming system will be a PC designed for TVs. That has sparked both positive and negative reactions from gamers. Except for Nvidia RTX 50-series and AMD RX 9070-series GPUs, many components have been downsized. Building a compact PC that doesn't look out of place in a living room is possible. Yet, a Series X or PS5 still provides a more user-friendly gaming experience.

A Windows-powered Xbox console could offer compatibility with thousands of PC titles. With both Microsoft and Sony publishing games on the platform, there would be less need for a traditional console. However, not all players enjoy maintaining hardware and tinkering with settings. How intuitive the console is to navigate with a controller will also determine its popularity.

Redditors responding to Corden's predictions are quick to point out the failure of Valve's Steam Machine. Still, that mini PC relied on the Linux-based Steam OS rather than Windows. Despite a large Steam library, most gamers prefer the versatility of PCs using Microsoft's software.

Corden doesn't expect a new Xbox console to surface before 2027. Gamers have concerns about backward compatibility with Xbox-exclusive titles, which Microsoft must sort out before any announcement.