Hardware Development
Ongoing coverage on Hardware Development.
Latest coverage
Switch 2 Games Surface in Record Month for Ratings Board Leaks | HappyGamer
A significant increase in game submissions to regional ratings boards, primarily for the upcoming Switch 2, indicates that Nintendo's next-generation hardware development is entering its final stages. This surge suggests that development kits have been widely distributed, games are nearing completion, and the Switch 2 will likely feature robust backwards compatibility with the current Nintendo Switch library.
Morning Mobilization
Valve has confirmed that development on the Steam Deck 2 is ongoing, though they are also addressing current stock issues with the original Steam Deck. The company is actively working on the next iteration of their handheld PC.
As the Steam Controller breaks cover, Valve say they're hard at work on the Steam Deck 2 and keeping current Decks in stock
Valve has confirmed that development is underway for the Steam Deck 2, with learnings from current hardware projects like the Steam Controller informing its design. The company is also actively working to address stock shortages for the current Steam Deck models by diversifying manufacturers and navigating global component availability issues.
Valve have plans for the Steam Deck 2, plus a brief Steam Machine / Steam Frame update
Valve developer Pierre-Loup Griffais confirmed that plans for the Steam Deck 2 are underway, though a release date remains unannounced. He indicated that Valve is waiting for significant silicon advancements to ensure a true next-generation performance leap. Updates on the Steam Machine and Steam Frame are expected soon.
Steam Deck 2 is Still A While Away, But Valve is “Hard at Work” On It
Valve programmer Pierre-Loup Griffais confirmed that "Steam Deck 2" is in development, but a release is still some time away as the company aims for a significant generational leap in performance rather than iterative upgrades. Designer Lawrence Yang previously stated Valve is not keen on yearly updates, prioritizing substantial improvements over frequent releases. The article also briefly mentions updates for other games and the upcoming Steam Controller.
Steam Controller’s release is imminent, but don’t hold out hope for a Steam Deck 2 any time soon
Valve programmer Pierre-Loup Griffais stated that a successor to the Steam Deck is not imminent, as the company is waiting for significant advancements in SoC technology to deliver a true next-generation performance leap. While development is ongoing and learnings from current hardware projects like the Steam Controller and Steam VR will inform the Steam Deck 2, there are no suitable components available yet. The Steam Controller is set to launch next week.
Steam Deck 2 still in the works, Valve says, but Steam Machine and Steam Controller come first: "A lot of what we're doing here will be learnings that build up to it"
Valve has confirmed that development on the Steam Deck 2 is ongoing, with learnings from current projects contributing to its future design. However, the company is prioritizing the release of the Steam Machine and the new Steam Controller, with no release window yet established for the next-generation handheld.
Valve Secretly Uploads Unwatchable Steam Controller Video
Valve has mysteriously uploaded an unwatchable unboxing video for the discontinued Steam Controller, sparking speculation about potential new hardware. Theories range from updates for the Steam Deck to a possible Steam Controller 2 or even VR input devices, given Valve's history with experimental hardware and cryptic announcements.
Every Nintendo Switch 2 Game Leaked So Far: Complete 2026 Roundup
A comprehensive compilation of leaked games rumored for the Nintendo Switch 2 has surfaced, detailing potential titles from various sources including insider information, ratings boards, and storefront leaks. The leaks suggest a strong lineup of first-party Nintendo franchises and third-party titles, indicating significant developer preparation and Nintendo's strategic focus on software for the upcoming console.
"Are You High?" – Xbox Co-Creator Believes Whatever Nintendo Makes Next Is Far More Interesting Than Project Helix
Xbox co-creator Seamus Blackley expressed low interest in Microsoft's upcoming 'Project Helix' hardware, stating the company is now entirely AI-focused. He finds Nintendo's future hardware, hypothetically a 'Switch 3', and Steam far more interesting from a content and design perspective, praising Nintendo's consistent ability to create intriguing products.
PS6 Won’t be Delayed Past 2027 or AMD Wouldn’t Waste Time Validating Chips – Rumor
Rumors suggest Sony and Microsoft are targeting a 2027 launch for their next-generation consoles, with AMD reportedly validating chips for the PlayStation 6. Industry insider KeplerL2 indicated that AMD's investment in validation work points to a commitment to this timeframe, despite potential memory shortages. Updates to the PlayStation 5's SDK also suggest a new console is not far off, with potential for a handheld variant.
Valve is reportedly working on Steam Deck 2 and plans to launch it by 2028, with one big change from the original
Valve is reportedly developing a successor to the Steam Deck, tentatively named Steam Deck 2, with a potential launch by 2028. A significant change from the original is Valve's plan to use off-the-shelf processors instead of custom AMD solutions to streamline development and stay current with technology.
New Xbox CEO "Willing To Question Everything," Xbox Exec Says
Microsoft Gaming's new CEO, Asha Sharma, is reportedly willing to re-evaluate all existing strategies to retain what makes Xbox great. Xbox vice president Jason Ronald highlighted Sharma's AI background and newcomer status to the gaming industry as beneficial for challenging established norms. Sharma has already discontinued the 'This Is An Xbox' marketing campaign and aims for Xbox to be a 'reference console' while investing in cloud gaming and future hardware.
Xbox Project Helix Could Be A Make-Or-Break Moment For Microsoft
Microsoft has revealed more details about its upcoming console/PC platform, codenamed Project Helix, with developer kits set to ship in 2028. Industry analysts suggest this indicates a consumer launch no earlier than 2028, potentially facing high prices due to component shortages like RAM. Project Helix is seen as a significant strategic move for Xbox, potentially marking a shift towards a PC-first ecosystem.
Xbox claims Project Helix alpha dev kits should be ready to ship in 2027
Xbox, under new CEO Asha Sharma, is reportedly preparing to ship 'Project Helix' alpha development kits in 2027. This move signals Microsoft's commitment to an "exciting new era" for the Xbox brand.
Project Helix Details; Win11 Xbox Mode Next Month
Details about Project Helix, the next generation of Xbox hardware, have been revealed, with alpha versions of the new console expected to be distributed to developers next year. Additionally, an Xbox mode for Windows 11 is slated for release next month.
Xbox hardware teased at GDC, just one week after PC/console hybrid Project Helix was first confirmed
Microsoft teased new Xbox hardware at GDC, featuring an "XDK" embossed shell that resembles an Xbox One developer kit. This tease is speculated to be related to the "Project Helix" initiative, a hybrid PC/console platform announced by new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma. Sharma's announcement highlighted Project Helix's performance capabilities for both Xbox and PC games.
Microsoft Teases Project Helix Development Kits at GDC 2026 With New Images
Microsoft has teased development kits for its next-generation console, codenamed Project Helix, at GDC 2026. The images, shared via Xbox's social media, bear resemblance to past Xbox development hardware and hint at the "XDK" designation. New Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma confirmed Project Helix will lead in performance for both Xbox and PC games.
Valve vagare kring sin hårdvara – kommer släppas "det här året"
Valve has become less specific about the release window for its upcoming hardware, including the Steam Machine, Steam Controller, and a new VR headset. Originally slated for early 2026, the company now states the hardware will be released "this year," citing challenges with memory and storage supply. Pricing for these devices is still under review.
Microsoft Denies New Xbox CEO Has A "Blank Check," But Says It's Investing In Gaming's Future
Microsoft has denied claims that newly appointed Xbox CEO Asha Sharma was given a "blank check" to revive the brand, though CEO Satya Nadella affirmed the company's commitment to investing in gaming. Communications officer Frank Shaw clarified that the "blank check" quote was fabricated, while Nadella emphasized Microsoft is "long on gaming" and will continue to invest. The company is reportedly working on next-generation hardware that will support both Xbox and PC games.
