Microsoft already working on next-gen console

We've only just gotten used to calling the Xbox Series X|S the "current generation" or "new-gen" console, having taken over from the Xbox One almost three years ago.

Since its release in November 2020, the Xbox Series X|S has been slow to circulate around the globe. But, it's similar to its PlayStation rival too because of the troubles with production and distribution throughout the pandemic.

Having meandered through these troubled times, it now seems that most people who wanted an upgrade have gotten their new-gen console, which has reportedly spurred Microsoft to make its move towards the next generation of gaming performance.

Microsoft's next Xbox is in development under a codename

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According to the FTC (Financial Trade Commission) - through documents related to the Microsoft and Activision Blizzard merger - the Xbox owners are already working on a new console.

"[The FTC] requests documents related to {Redacted}, the code name for Microsoft’s next-generation gaming ecosystem. {Redacted} is part of Microsoft’s forward-looking strategy for its console, subscription, and cloud gaming businesses," reads the report.

The FTC did blank out the respective codenames in its public report, but it seemingly confirms Microsoft's intentions to build a next-generation console. Previously, Microsoft kept its  Series X and S consoles under the codenames of Anaconda and Lockhart, with an overarching project branch labelled "Scarlett."

Now, eyes will be scanning through every Microsoft document that's released, looking for any codenames that could relate to its next iteration of console development. You might have a bit of a wait on your hands, though. 

The console war between Microsoft and Sony prepares to reignite

Microsoft's newest details about a future Xbox upgrade comes just a few weeks after industry leakers suggested that the PlayStation 6 is in development too.

Previous rumours have suggested that the PS6 could arrive by 2028, giving us just five years before the next generation of console wars will kick off. Oh great!

To make sure it's still in the fight for the market, Microsoft will likely want to match Sony's release date - especially given recent efforts to pull in mass audiences through the Bethesda and Activision acquisitions.

So, whichever side of the fence you sit on - or even if your bottom has splinters when it comes to the console wars - you might want to start putting away some money each month for your next-generation console in five years' time.