Microsoft's next-gen Xbox to run Windows with console-style interface

People familiar with Microsoft’s plans say the company’s next-generation Xbox will run a full version of Windows with a TV‑optimized, console‑style interface layered on top, allowing players to operate in a traditional Xbox environment or exit into Windows to access other storefronts, apps and PC games. The device, described by company executives as a premium, high-end offering, is expected to arrive in the coming years though key details such as price and exact timing remain unconfirmed.

According to the people, the console will boot into an "Xbox Full Screen Experience" by default to preserve a living room-friendly, controller-first workflow, while still permitting users to switch into full Windows to run software including third-party stores such as Steam, Epic Games Store and Battle.net, or productivity and creative applications. The approach would let owners combine access to Game Pass and Xbox libraries with the broader PC game ecosystem. Sources say Microsoft intends to support backwards compatibility for titles from the original Xbox through Xbox One and to apply technologies such as Auto Super Resolution and frame generation to improve performance of existing Series X...