A recently unearthed patent offers a glimpse into the design of the cancelled Xbox Keystone console. While previously hinted at by Phil Spencer, this budget-friendly streaming device may never see the light of day.
During the Xbox One era, Microsoft explored various strategies to recapture lapsed gamers. This included the launch of Xbox Game Pass, a subscription service that continues to thrive on the Xbox Series X/S. Prior to Game Pass, Games With Gold provided free games, a service discontinued in 2023 alongside the introduction of Game Pass's tiered subscription model. Since Game Pass's inception, Microsoft has alluded to a dedicated console for cloud-streaming Game Pass content. A newly discovered patent reveals the device's intended design and functionality.
Windows Central recently uncovered this patent detailing the Xbox Keystone, envisioned as a streaming device akin to Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV Stick. The patent includes multiple images, showcasing a circular top reminiscent of the Xbox Series S. The front features an Xbox power button and what appears to be a rectangular USB port. The rear panel includes an Ethernet port, an HDMI port, and an oval-shaped power port. A pairing button for controllers is located on one side, with ventilation slots on the back and bottom. A circular base elevates the device for optimal airflow.
Why the Xbox Keystone's Cancellation?
Microsoft has been conducting xCloud testing since 2019, a process likely intended to optimize the Xbox Keystone's performance. The console's projected price point was between $99 and $129, a target Microsoft apparently couldn't meet. This suggests that the technology needed to stream Xbox Game Pass games via xCloud exceeded the price target. Considering Xbox consoles often launch at cost or at a loss, producing the Keystone for under $129 proved insurmountable. However, given the decreasing cost of technology, a future release remains a possibility.
Given Phil Spencer's past comments, the Xbox Keystone wasn't exactly a closely guarded secret. While seemingly abandoned, the underlying concept could potentially influence future projects.
