Alleged Xbox 'Stream Box' prototype appears online — what we know so far

Declared Xbox 'Stream Box' image appears online — what we know so far

(Prototype credit: Post Up)

It's no secret that Microsoft is betting on game streaming taking off in the future, and it won't necessarily be on an Xbox. Which is why nosotros're interested in this new but rather tenuous rumor, suggesting an Xbox "Stream Box" is on the mode.

Renders of this alleged prototype Xbox game streaming box were posted on Twitter past Postal service Up, and seem to originate from 4chan or a similar imageboard site.

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While we're skeptical of their legitimacy, the rendered images suggest such a streaming-focussed console could draw inspiration from the compact Xbox Series Southward.

👀 The Xbox Stream box is coming! movie.twitter.com/t3NY0QnCcuJuly 31, 2021

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Judging from what Postal service Up has tweeted, this volition be a very minor device (slightly larger than a deck of cards) that tin can but be used to play games streamed from Microsoft'due south Xbox Cloud Gaming service, besides referred to as xCloud. So you would have no access to any local titles, like yous'd accept on an Xbox Serial S.

Notwithstanding, it could as well be a regular streaming box likewise, with access to online streaming content — HBO Max and Disney Plus are the two mentioned.

The images also show off a variety of ports, including ethernet, HDMI, USB-C, and a front-facing USB-A port. The box will allegedly accept Wi-Fi, volition exist compatible with any Xbox controller, and wireless keyboard and mouse back up is evidently planned. Similar the Xbox Series 10 and Series S, the rendered images show off a pairing button (next to the USB port) that will also allegedly act as an IR receiver.

Then how likely is it that all this information is authentic? Microsoft has confirmed that it'due south been working on its own Xbox streaming devices. So a dedicated Xbox streaming box that costs significantly less than an Xbox console, makes total sense. Plus, the visitor Microsoft has confirmed that information technology is working with TV manufacturers to bring Xbox streaming to Smart TVs.

But that doesn't mean this information is legitimate, no matter how much sense it might brand. The fact information technology appeared on an bearding imageboard doesn't actually practise it whatsoever favors either.

And if this data is correct, it may be a while before we hear annihilation anyway. Supposedly the Xbox Stream Box was due to arrive before the stop of the year, but the global flake shortage may have put a damper on that.

So you might just accept to stick with one of the many other devices capable of streaming Xbox games, like the Samsung Galaxy S2, or run across if y'all can selection upwardly a console during an Xbox Serial 10 restock.

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Tom is the Tom's Guide'due south Automotive Editor, which ways he can commonly be plant knee deep in stats the latest and best electrical cars, or checking out some sort of driving gadget. It's long way from his days as editor of Gizmodo UK, when pretty much everything was on the table. He'south usually constitute trying to squeeze another giant Lego set onto the shelf, draining very big cups of coffee, or complaining that Ikea won't let him buy the stuff he actually needs online.