In a remarkable feat of hardware modification, a skilled modder known as Redherring32 has accomplished what many thought impossible: creating the world's first portable Xbox using the original console's motherboard. This groundbreaking achievement comes at a time when rumors of an official Microsoft handheld Xbox have been circulating, making the timing of this DIY project particularly intriguing.
A True Xbox Handheld, Not Emulation
What sets this project apart is its authenticity. Unlike many portable gaming solutions that rely on emulation or PC hardware, Redherring32's creation uses a genuine Xbox motherboard, trimmed down and reconfigured to fit into a handheld form factor. This ensures that games run exactly as they would on the original hardware, preserving the authentic Xbox gaming experience.
Impressive Specifications
The portable Xbox boasts some impressive features:
- 9-inch 480p display
- 100W USB-C fast charging
- Built-in Xbox controller
- Wi-Fi 6 support (currently being added) for Xbox Live functionality
A Labor of Love and Skill
The project was no small undertaking. Redherring32 spent over four months researching how to trim down the Xbox motherboard, a process that had never been attempted before. The final design incorporates 12 custom-designed PCBs, showcasing the incredible amount of engineering that went into this mod.
Open Source and Community-Driven
In a move that will surely excite other modders and Xbox enthusiasts, Redherring32 plans to make the entire project open source. This includes detailed guides, schematics, and PCB source files, potentially paving the way for others to create their own portable Xbox consoles.
Implications for Microsoft
This DIY project comes at an interesting time for Microsoft. Xbox boss Phil Spencer has previously expressed interest in creating an official Xbox handheld, stating in a June interview, I think we should have a handheld, too. However, no official announcements have been made, leaving the field open for innovative modders like Redherring32 to fill the gap.
What's Next?
While we await more details and a gameplay demo from Redherring32, this project has certainly captured the imagination of the gaming community. It raises questions about the potential for official handheld Xbox devices and demonstrates the enduring appeal of the original Xbox hardware.
As the handheld gaming market continues to grow, with devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally gaining popularity, it's clear that there's still a strong demand for portable gaming experiences. Whether Microsoft will respond with an official product remains to be seen, but for now, Redherring32's creation stands as a testament to the ingenuity and passion of the modding community.