In an unfortunate series of events, Microsoft’s plans for a mid-gen Xbox refresh in 2024, a new controller with specs, and a new next-gen hybrid Xbox were leaked in a document accidentally shared in the FTC V. Microsoft case.
After it went viral online, the judge in the case, Jacqueline Scott Corley in a new court order on September 19, confirmed that Microsoft accidentally provided the court with a version that contained non-public information on the link where only public documents should have been posted. The leaked documents have long since been erased from the link.
Details of the Microsoft leak: New Xbox, New controller, and possible acquisitions
The document showed a new version of the Xbox Series X console with the codename “Brooklin”. Brooklin is set for launch in 2024 with an increase from 1 terabyte to 2 terabytes of storage and a price of $499. The leak also showed plans for a new Xbox Controller codenamed “Sebile” which will have motion controls and haptic feedback features.
Moreover, the document revealed Microsoft’s plan for the provisional plan for the next generation Xbox, with the tag of a “hybrid game platform”. It showed that the next generation Xbox is planned for 2028.
The document also leaked a couple of unannounced Bethesda games and their release schedules, as well as a next-gen version of Rockstar’s Red Dead Redemption 2.
Additionally, a huge revelation from the document was an internal communication from 2020 where a potential acquisition of Nintendo, Valve and Warner Bros gaming arm were tabled. Microsoft’s CEO seemed really keen on acquiring Nintendo as he noted that “Nintendo is the prime asset for us in Gaming and today Gaming is our most likely path to consumer relevance.” He also noted that Microsoft was in the best position to acquire Nintendo among all the U.S companies.
Microsoft’s response to the leaks from FTC Case
In a bid to calm things down after the leak, the CEO of Microsoft, Phil Spencer tweeted that the company had “seen the conversation around old email and documents”. He then said that “It is hard to see our team’s work shared in this way because so much has changed and there’s so much to be excited about right now, and in the future. We will share the real plans when we are ready.”
