Next Xbox console could be over $1,000

Microsoft recently announced that the next generation of Xbox consoles will be powered by AMD SoCs. What was more interesting was the bit about not being locked to a single store, which is the USP of the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds as well. As appealing as it sounds, this kind of freedom will surely come at a price and a known leaker has claimed the next Xbox could be priced at over $1,000.

Kepler_L2 is known for sharing leaks related to the SoCs and processing capabilities of upcoming hardware, including the next PlayStation and Xbox consoles. In a response to the recent announcement by Xbox president Sarah Bond, Kepler_L2 shared on X that for Microsoft to allow multiple storefronts on its first party gaming device, the console will have to be sold at a profit. “Get ready for the first >$1000 console boys,” the leaker adds.

While there is no information from Microsoft on the price of the next generation Xbox, the over $1,000 price tag claimed by the leaker may have some substance to it. Consoles have limited and fairly optimized capabilities, for which the SoCs can be manufactured for relatively cheaper than for PCs. Thus, manufacturers like Microsoft, Sony, Valve, and others are able to price consoles for relatively cheaper and bank upon game store exclusivity and subscriptions (in case of Xbox and PS).

Now, with Microsoft allowing multiple storefronts, they will lose out on exclusivity and possibly subscribers. For that, the base price of the console will have to make up for it, thus resulting in a pricier device for the consumer. And, that price increase could be a significant one.

Commentors on Kepler_L2’s post are not opposed to the idea of a $1,000 console. Some state that if it can replace their PC, it would be worth it. Some believe that having multiple storefronts could lead to competitive pricing for games. As for what the next Xbox will actually cost, remains to be seen. Recent rumors have suggested that Microsoft could unveil the next Xbox as early as 2026.