The FTC v. Microsoft case has inadvertently leaked details about Microsoft’s upcoming mid-gen refresh of the Xbox Series X|S. Here’s what the leaked court documents revealed:

Mid-Gen Refresh Plans:

• Microsoft is planning a mid-gen refresh for 2024, despite previous statements to the contrary.
• The refresh includes three digital-only models, with no disc drives.

Console Models:

1. Ellenwood: This is a “light” refresh of the Xbox Series S.
2. Brookline: A new disc-free iteration of the Xbox Series X.
3. Uther: Similar specs to Brookline, but available with Microsoft’s Xbox Design Lab customization.

Controller:

• A new controller codenamed “Sebile” is set to release ahead of the mid-gen consoles.
• The Sebile controller includes upgrades like an accelerometer, haptics that double as speakers, modular thumb sticks, quieter buttons, sustainability features (swappable battery, recycled materials, and easier repairability).

Design Changes:

• The Brookline console features a design refresh from the Xbox Series X’s iconic shape, looking more like a round or oblong tower.
• Upgrades for Brookline include more internal storage, faster Wi-Fi, reduced power usage, a redesigned controller, and sustainability improvements.

Pricing:

• The disc-free Xbox Series X and S will retail for the same launch price as the base models ($499 for the X, $299 for the S).

Release Schedule:

• Seibel controller: May 2024
• Mid-gen consoles announcement: June 2024
• Ellenwood (Xbox Series S refresh) launch: August 2024
• Brookline (Xbox Series X refresh) launch: Late October 2024

These leaks also revealed potential game release schedules, including Dishonored 3, and offered first details on Microsoft’s next-gen hardware.