The next Xbox will feature an external disc drive that will be sold separately as an add-on, based on the latest rumor.
Speaking during the latest Double-Barrel Gaming podcast, Middleagegamegy stated that the next Xbox consoles will have an external disc drive that can be purchased separately. As per the source, the previously leaked mid-gen refresh Xbox consoles have been scrapped by Microsoft in favor of next gen consoles.
He also speculated that the new Xbox controller with support for haptics, codenamed Sebile, will now be released alongside the next generation consoles.
Regarding the external disc drive for the next Xbox, Middleagegamegy said it would be available as an add-on within the price range of $80 to $100. He mentioned that it would be a similar scenario to the Xbox 360’s external HD-DVD drive.
Regarding the new Xbox controller, it was originally revealed that the it would receive a price tag of $69.99. It is said to be equipped with an accelerometer, allowing users to power it on by simply lifting it. The controller boasts a two-tone color design and supports various connectivity options, including direct cloud connection, Bluetooth 5.2, and an updated “Xbox Wireless 2” connection. Microsoft highlights features such as “precision haptic feedback” and “VCA haptics doubling as speakers.” Additionally, the controller will feature quieter buttons, a rechargeable and interchangeable battery, and modular analog sticks. The controller is said to have a familiar feel, the same ergonomics, and the same layout and activation forces as the existing controller (codenamed Merlin). It will feature SE/LE/XDL options as expected.
As for the allegedly canceled mid-gen Xbox Series X, codenamed Brooklyn, the the leaked FCC documents mentioned that it is set to be a digital-only console. Brooklyn was said to provide an enhanced 4K Gen9 console gaming experience, accompanied by increased internal storage, faster Wi-Fi, reduced power consumption, and a visually appealing redesign that elevates the overall all-digital aspect of the Xbox ecosystem. This new console would come equipped with 2TB of internal storage space, and would feature a USB-C front port with power delivery, among other updated technologies. In terms of hardware upgrades, the digital-only Xbox Series X mid-gen refresh was said to feature an all-new southbridge to modernize IO and sustainability efforts.
