Xbox architect hints at an exciting 2026 for Xbox – Windows Central

In a video, BBC’s Tom Gerken takes a close look at Xbox’s Ally X handheld, detailing the device and covering a lot of what we already know.

More interestingly, Jason Ronald, the VP of Xbox Gaming Devices and Ecosystem, also took the spotlight briefly to discuss the handheld and give a few small teases about what fans can expect from Xbox next year as it approaches its 25th anniversary.

Jason laments how now felt like the right time for Xbox to enter the handheld territory, stating:

He frames the current moment as the point where player behaviour, industry trends, and technology finally align in a way that makes a handheld Xbox device viable for consumers.

However, the most interesting comments were made when Gerken questioned Jason directly on whether backwards compatibility will be expanded. He asked, “Child me would be so unhappy if I didn’t press you on this point. You know, are you going to bring more original Xbox games to Game Pass in the future?”

Jason gave a fairly ambiguous response, not saying a lot but also saying enough to give me and many others hope:

He further goes on to add, “I can’t confirm or deny what you’re asking, but stay tuned. We have a lot of exciting things to share next year.”

It’s not a lot, sure, but it’s enough for me at least to have hope that we’ll see some sort of expansion to backwards compatibility. And with Xbox’s 25th anniversary around the corner, we might not have to wait much longer to find out. With so many Activision games now under the Xbox umbrella, that alone would make for a hefty addition if it ever happened.

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Adam is a Psychology Master’s graduate passionate about gaming, community building, and digital engagement. A lifelong Xbox fan since 2001, he started with Halo: Combat Evolved and remains an avid achievement hunter. Over the years, he has engaged with several Discord communities, helping them get established and grow. Gaming has always been more than a hobby for Adam—it’s where he’s met many friends, taken on new challenges, and connected with communities that share his passion.