Xbox Project Helix reportedly projected to cost $1,200 to $1,800

A Fortune profile of Xbox CEO Asha Sharma reports that Microsoft's Project Helix console has an internal price projection of $1,200 to $1,800. This price could change if Microsoft decides to subsidize the hardware. The report also says Microsoft plans to release a next-generation handheld by the 2027 holiday season, followed by the Helix console during the 2028 holidays.

People familiar with the matter told Fortune that Helix engineering deadlines have moved up by at least several months, which is putting more pressure on development teams. The report also noted internal friction regarding the upcoming handheld's software. While Windows leaders reportedly wanted the device to run a trimmed-down version of Windows Home, Sharma's team sought to use custom software to improve gaming performance. Xbox now appears to be steering the handheld's operating system.

Fortune reports that Microsoft also plans to overhaul Xbox Game Pass to allow players to choose features a la carte, including add-ons for multiplayer and cloud gaming. Microsoft has not confirmed any pricing for Project Helix.