New Xbox Series S Coming in 2024: What to Expect

Microsoft is rumored to be releasing an updated iteration of the Xbox Series S, it’s affordable next-gen gaming console. Codenamed “Ellesmere”, this enhanced Xbox Series S is expected to bring only minor but meaningful revisions aimed at efficiency, connectivity and sustainability.

While full details are still unconfirmed, reports point to a release date sometime in late 2024. As anticipation builds, here is a closer look at what improvements gamers might see with the new Xbox Series S model based on leaks so far.

A Refreshed Version of Xbox ?

The current Xbox Series S debuted back in 2020 alongside the more powerful Xbox Series X. The little brother console delivered next-generation gaming performance at a budget-friendly $299 price point.

The Series S features compromises like 4 teraflops GPU power versus 12 on Series X and lacks a disc drive. But its small, sleek all-digital design made 1440p gaming extremely accessible.

Now in 2024, Microsoft looks poised to revise their affordable offering with updated components and modern connectivity without raising the price. This ensures Xbox continues delivering incredible value to gamers on a budget.

Let’s examine the potential updates buyers can expect on the upcoming refreshed edition.

Enhanced Efficiency and Sustainability

While the new Xbox Series S chassis doesn’t change much physically, Microsoft seems focused primarily on efficiency.

Efficiency gains manifest through adoption of cutting edge wireless protocols like Wi-Fi 6E as well as a transition to more energy-sipping components. Together this allows for quicker downloads, smoother online multiplayer while also reducing overall power consumption.

And the nipped and tucked Xbox Series S model sports improved sustainability through increasing recycled materials in packaging and the console shell itself.

These two subtle but impactful improvements create positive ripple effects that benefit consumers, supply chains and the environment alike.

Modernized Ports and Connectivity

Owners can also expect slight adjustments when it comes to physical ports and wireless connectivity.

The front USB-A port gets upgraded to USB-C for faster accessory and controller charging. Support gets added for Bluetooth 5.2 to ensure compatibility with a wider range of audio devices. Wi-Fi 6E brings faster and more reliable wireless networking.

Combined, these upgrades deliver a more capable, versatile media hub and smart home controller without compromise compared to leading consoles and streaming devices.

And with expansions like adding Bluetooth support happening via firmware update on Xbox Series X/S today, existing owners also reap some of the connectivity benefits too.

Familiar Power and Performance

Gamers expecting or hoping for more radical changes like 4K gaming, NVMe SSD or big teraflop boosts from this Xbox Series S refresh will come away disappointed.

The updated model looks on track to retain the affordable console’s familiar compact stature and component architecture. So 1080p and 1440p gaming around 60 frames per second with settings compromises remains the expectation.

But for families, kids and casual gamers the Xbox Series S punches far above its weight class. And preserving the same approachability and value means more budget-conscious players can experience next-gen games without worrying they are missing out on the latest hardware.

What This Means for Game Developers and Accessibility

Because this “Slim” style refresh preserves the same guts as today’s Xbox Series S, developers building next-generation games don’t need to target multiple performance profiles.

The continued consistency and incremental install base growth from keeping pricing flat also incentivizes studios to support Xbox aggressively with proper optimizations and exclusives too.

And for the accessibility piece, costs staying under $300 ensures Xbox gaming remains attainable for more households worldwide despite inflation or recession concerns.

Everyone deserves to enjoy immersive, graphically-rich experiences – the new Xbox Series S model delivers exactly that in a thoughtful, eco-friendly package.

Possible Launch Date and Announcement Speculation

Credible reports point to a full announcement potentially happening in June or July of 2024 based on Microsoft’s annual gaming and hardware keynote timing.

Several big budget exclusives like Starfield also launch next year, making it a prime opportunity to drum up PR buzz.

As for actual retail availability – the refreshed, eco-friendly Xbox Series S seems on pace for a late August or early September 2024 launch. This positions it nicely for the holiday shopping rush filled with bundles and deals.

But of course schedules can always shift. Until Microsoft officially confirms the next gen console though, take any leaks or rumors with the appropriate skepticism.

Regardless of exact release window, the Series S revisions bring nice-to-have refinements versus huge performance gains. So no reason for interested buyers to hold off on the already excellent value current model offers.

What About Updated Xbox Series X or PS5 Slim Models?

This Xbox Series S refresh in 2024 also sparks questions around whether souped up Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5 hardware gets unveiled mid-lifecycle too.

Rumors already point to a potential Xbox Series X “Ellesmere” edition also in development – with little changes beyond additions like USB-C and Wi-Fi 6E.

Sony just launched their PS5 Dualsense Edge pro controller and PSVR 2 headset peripherals. But they remain silent on hardware updates themselves for now.

Realistically though, with supply chain woes easing for in-demand chips like AMD’s, both platform holders likely explore rolling revisions following the “Slim” console playbook in another couple years.

Early adopters can rest easy knowing little incentive exists taking risks on bigger redesigns yet. And the expanded next-generation install base only means more immersive, innovative gaming content arriving regularly.

Final Words

The refreshed and still affordable Xbox Series S delivers iterative but practical improvements reflecting evolving consumer connectivity needs in an eco-conscious package.

Microsoft’s commitment to accessibility and value perseveres by retaining pricing under $300. At the same time, souped up components lend even more credibility that Xbox Series S represents next-gen gaming without compromise compared to leading consoles.

While only modest revisions, the updated Xbox Series S ultimately moves the needle on efficiency, sustainability and connectivity in all the right ways. Casual gamers win thanks to enhanced experiences at prices working families can manage.

Look for the leaner, meaner, greener Xbox Series S to drop Holiday 2024 brimming with bundles perfect for gifting. When deals emerge, this new affordable next-gen console becomes almost impossible for budget-focused households to pass up.

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