In the recent past, Microsoft was reportedly pouring resources into the development of Keystone, an independent streaming device designed to extend Xbox games to Game Pass subscribers without necessitating an Xbox console. However, its development was terminated in 2021, possibly due to the marked interest in streaming services offering their own cloud gaming solutions.
Adapting to the dynamic nature of gaming technology, Microsoft made no moves to back down, but instead devised new innovative strategies. The goal remained the same: to ensure video gaming experience for Game Pass subscribers is smooth and uninterrupted. The company switched gears towards integrating Xbox’s cloud gaming feature directly into smart televisions, thus eliminating the need for a separate streaming device and providing a more user-friendly route to experience Xbox games.
A glimpse into a recent patent unveil by Windows Central gave some insight into what Keystone likely represented. The patent suggested the device was to be a pioneering gaming platform offering cross-play functionalities for diverse platforms. Merited features included interactive cloud streaming and user interface design developments aimed at making gaming accessible for all players.
Integrating Xbox cloud gaming into smart TVs
The device was reportedly cube-like and compact. An absent controller port on the prototype hinted at the inclusion of a controller. Despite its potential, Keystone was abandoned due to undefined reasoning.
In lieu of Keystone, Microsoft shifted focus towards creating a streaming application for smart TVs. However, unlike the expected positive reception, the hardware updates by Xbox at the Summer Games Fest received a lukewarm response. The relatively cold reception could be attributed to leaked information suggesting more noteworthy advancements and the concurrent reveals from Sony’s PlayStation event, which seemingly overshadowed Xbox’s presentation.
Irrespective, Xbox maintains an optimistic outlook towards achieving significant success in hardware development in the future. The potential attributed to Keystone sparks intriguing contemplations about Microsoft’s product development process. Despite facing challenges, Xbox remains undeterred, looking forward to massive success in the domain of hardware development.
