In a February 24, 2026 interview with Windows Central, incoming Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and Chief Content Officer Matt Booty described a platform that should stay rooted in console while reaching players across devices. They also urged patience: Sharma said she is still learning from past decisions, and Booty said players should not expect drastic near-term changes.
What does “return to Xbox” mean?
Sharma framed “return to Xbox” as reconnecting with the platform’s founding spirit and its core fans—not abandoning the console. She said, “I think that our core Xbox fans and players have invested up to 25 years of themselves in these universes and our console.” She added, “I want to make sure everybody knows I’m committed to Xbox, starting with the console.”
That console commitment sits alongside a broader ambition: meet players across devices and reduce barriers for developers, so they can build once for different hardware experiences. In the interview, these were complementary aims, not a choice between console and other devices. Sharma did not specify a future console model, hardware features, or release timing.
Is Xbox changing its strategy?
Sharma said she needs to understand the data and reasoning behind previous decisions before settling on a strategy. Her formulation was, “The plan’s the plan until it’s not the plan.” Booty likewise cautioned against expecting an immediate overhaul while the leadership team reviews the business. Their comments describe a period of evaluation, not a confirmed reversal or a new roadmap.
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#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Sharma also set a standard for what should follow: “I think from here, the work is proof over promise.” The interview did not announce specific strategic changes or provide a timetable for decisions.
How does Xbox describe its game studios and portfolio?
Booty characterized Xbox’s portfolio as spanning small games, ongoing franchises, and blockbusters. He said, “Our studio system is fully built around being first-party.” He described that system as first-party development working in partnership with the platform team; the interview did not announce studio reorganizations or name a new slate of games.
Rank #2
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What did the leaders say about AI in games?
Sharma rejected indiscriminate, derivative output, saying, “I will not flood our ecosystem with slop.” Booty said teams are not being ordered to adopt AI: “We’ve got no pressure from Microsoft, there are no directives on AI coming down.” Taken together, the remarks present AI use as a tool teams may choose when they find it beneficial, while Sharma emphasized a boundary against lowering the quality of the Xbox ecosystem. They do not establish a detailed policy or a list of approved uses.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What remains unanswered?
The interview did not settle several questions raised about Xbox services and franchises. Windows Central’s journalist said Game Pass’s future and Cloud Gaming’s role were not answered; the interview also did not announce a new Banjo-Kazooie. These remain open questions in this conversation, not commitments or upcoming releases.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Rank #4
- XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: Play like a pro with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks..Audio : 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other Xbox controller accessories made by Microsoft.
- CORE ESSENTIALS: Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Additional components sold separately for even more customization with the Complete Component Pack.
- LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION: Exclusive button mapping options in the Xbox Accessories app—even pick which color the Xbox button lights up with.*
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Rank #3
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
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- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
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