A recently unearthed patent offers a glimpse into the design of the canceled Xbox Keystone console. While previously hinted at by Phil Spencer, the Keystone may never see the light of day.

During the Xbox One era, Microsoft explored various strategies to recapture lapsed gamers. This included the launch of Game Pass, which has since expanded significantly and continues with the Xbox Series X/S. Prior to Game Pass, Games With Gold provided free games to Xbox users. Games With Gold concluded in 2023, coinciding with the introduction of multiple Game Pass subscription tiers. Following Game Pass's success, Xbox explored a dedicated console for cloud-streaming Game Pass content. A newly discovered patent reveals the console's intended design and functionality.

Windows Central recently unearthed details of the Xbox Keystone, a streaming device akin to Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV Stick. The patent includes images depicting the Keystone's circular top, reminiscent of the Xbox Series S. The front panel shows an Xbox power button and what appears to be a USB port. The rear features an Ethernet port, HDMI port, and an oval power connector. A pairing button is located on the side, with ventilation slots on the back and bottom. A circular base elevates the device for optimal airflow.

Why the Xbox Keystone's Cancellation?

Microsoft has been testing xCloud since 2019, a process likely intended to optimize the Keystone's performance. The Keystone's projected retail price was between $99 and $129, a target Microsoft couldn't achieve. This suggests that the technology needed for xCloud-based Game Pass streaming exceeded the price point. Considering that Xbox consoles often launch at cost or even at a loss, producing the Keystone for under $129 proved impossible. However, future cost reductions in technology might make a future release feasible.

Given Phil Spencer's past comments, the Keystone wasn't a closely guarded secret. While seemingly abandoned, the project's core concepts may influence future Xbox initiatives.