In temporary: Despite being a succesful system, the Xbox Series X could possibly be higher with just a few changes. One approach to do it will be enhancing the console SoC’s effectivity, one thing {that a} current report claims Microsoft is already doing.
Since Microsoft finalized the Xbox Series X design, which in all probability occurred a couple of yr or extra earlier than the console truly shipped, semiconductor expertise has improved. What was new again then is not up-to-date now. That’s simply how expertise works.
Microsoft is definitely conscious of this, therefore why it is in all probability creating new chip revisions for the Xbox Series consoles as we converse. Sometimes, these revisions solely end in value optimizations for the corporate, however there are circumstances the place customers can straight profit from them.
Brad Sams, a journalist recognized for his work round Microsoft merchandise, acknowledged Microsoft has been engaged on the latter kind. Unfortunately, we cannot possible see any efficiency enhancements or new options. However, the journalist believes this new chip revision will enhance effectivity and run cooler.
To enhance the chip’s effectivity, the very first thing that involves thoughts could be migrating SoC manufacturing from TSMC’s N7 node to N6. As TSMC had beforehand acknowledged, migrating a product between these two nodes is comparatively straightforward as they’re each primarily based on the identical IP and improvement ecosystem.
Also Read: Xbox Series S vs Series X spec-by-spec comparability
Compared to N7, the N6 node gives an 18 % enhance in transistor density whereas shrinking the die as much as 15 %. In unfastened phrases, Microsoft might cut back the dimensions of the die and keep its efficiency and energy necessities, keep the dimensions and cut back energy consumption, or one thing in between.
A brand new chip revision might additionally imply we’ll get a brand new design. Considering the brand new chip revision would run cooler, Microsoft might redesign the console to be smaller, much like what it did with the Xbox 360 variants that got here after the unique and Xbox One S.
As the Series consoles are about to rejoice their second anniversary, we do not anticipate to see new fashions of the Xbox Series consoles anytime quickly. However, by their third or fourth anniversary, there ought to be greater than sufficient purpose for Microsoft to revamp its console lineup.
Masthead credit score: Billy Freeman
