At the E3 gaming expo in Los Angeles, Microsoft revealed the first details of their next gaming console. Codenamed Project Scarlett, the console boasts significantly reduced loading times, and a processor four times more powerful than the Xbox One X.

In a video presentation, Microsoft claimed the new console will run native 4K at 60 frames per second. The new console will be capable of running 8K – although it wasn’t clear if this referred to video payback or gming expereinces, or both. The company also said it will feature an advanced SSD drive, which they claim is 40 times faster than current consoles.

The new console will launch in time for Christmas 2020. Halo Infinite will be among its launch titles. No cosmetic or pricing details were revealed.

“As expected, with a next-generation Xbox release being at least 17 months away, a full reveal didn’t happen,” commented Piers Harding-Rolls from IHS Markit, speaking on the news. “Sony had done a similar reveal of next-generation power at a previous investor event, but Microsoft’s exposure at E3 and the announcement that Halo Infinite will be a launch title will have positioned it strongly, especially with the US audience.”

Microsoft also revealed further details on their streaming plans via xCloud. It will stream Xbox One games from either the firm’s data centres or users’ own consoles to other devices, including smartphones, allowing gamers to continuing playing when away from home. The service wil beta launch in October.

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