- Published on
Microsoft reportedly projects $1,200 to $1,800 price for 2028 Project Helix
- Authors
- Name
- DeepHorus
Microsoft's Project Helix console, planned for the 2028 holiday season, is internally projected to cost $1,200 to $1,800, according to a Fortune report on Xbox CEO Asha Sharma. The price could drop if Microsoft subsidizes the hardware, as console makers often do. This would be a historically high starting price for a console.
Project Helix, announced in March, will play both Xbox and PC games. Fortune reveals a dual release: a next-gen handheld by the end of next year, then the console in 2028. Both are part of Microsoft's gaming hardware push.
The high price reflects a new normal: slowing Moore's Law and AI-driven component shortages make cutting-edge hardware costly. This year, the Steam Machine broke $1,000, the PS5 Pro sells for $900, and the Xbox Series X starts at $750. These examples underscore the industry-wide trend of rising costs.
These figures show the challenges Microsoft faces in a market where powerful hardware is expensive. A $1,200 starting price could limit mainstream adoption, though subsidies might help. Success may hinge on pricing strategy and cost management.
Internal clashes also reportedly trouble the project. Fortune cites sources saying Microsoft is split over whether the Helix handheld runs a "trimmed-down Windows Home" or a bespoke Xbox OS. One executive threatened to cancel the handheld if forced to use Windows.
The conflict highlights broader tensions in Microsoft's gaming division as it balances Windows integration with Xbox innovation. The decision could affect the handheld's performance and timeline. Microsoft has not commented publicly.
Looking ahead, Project Helix faces high component costs, internal disputes, and competition. Delivering compelling hardware at a reasonable price will be crucial. With the handheld due late next year and the console in 2028, the coming months will reveal Microsoft's path forward.
