Leaked documents from Microsoft, and patents from rival Sony, suggest the next-gen Xbox console could have Web3 features, according to speculators within the online community.
In September 2023, an unredacted document was uploaded by Microsoft to a public repository for their ongoing FTC case concerning the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The document – from May 2022 – made direct reference to planned Web3 features, though it is unknown if these are still in place.
Rivals Sony have filed numerous patents in the last few years that suggest they are exploring Web3 features for their next-gen console also. According to rumours, the next-generation Xbox console is currently aiming to release in 2027.
What Web3 features could the next-gen Xbox have?
The leaked March 2022 Microsoft roadmap makes a specific reference to a “crypto wallet” as a feature of their “next gen platform for immersive apps and games”. It is unconfirmed if this would be a solution that Microsoft had planned to develop in-house, or integrate a popular existing wallet – such as MetaMask.
It is important to note that this leaked document was created prior to the May 2022 crash in the crypto markets, which may have influenced a shift away from Web3.
Microsoft have pointed all enquiries regarding this leak to a tweet from Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, acknowledging the leak and stating that they “will share the real plans when we are ready.”
Microsoft’s console rivals in Sony have also flirted with Web3 technology. A March 2023 patent included a framework for cross-platform NFT trading, a March 2024 patent introduced the concept of “super-fungible tokens”, and January 2025 heralded the launch of Soneium – an Ethereum Layer-2 network.
It is unknown whether Microsoft plans to follow in Sony’s footsteps in exploring further Web3 features in their next-gen console.
When will the next-gen Xbox come out?
Rumours began to circulate in March 2025 that Microsoft is planning for their follow-up to the Xbox Series X/S to release in 2027. This would continue a 7-8 year console lifespan that spans the past four Xbox consoles: Xbox 360 (2005), Xbox One (2013), Xbox Series X/S (2020), and the untitled next-gen Xbox (slated for 2027).
Since Phil Spencer became CEO of Microsoft Gaming in 2022, he has advocated for – amongst other things – increased support for cross-platform play, the further development of in-house IP (such as Halo and Forza), and bolstered first-party studio support.
With both Sony and Epic Games exploring blockchain technology – some behind-the-scenes, some more overtly – it remains to be seen exactly what Xbox may have planned for their next flagship console release.
COO & founder of NFT Insider. Bullish on web3. Competitive soul.