Microsoft’s gaming chief, Phil Spencer, has confirmed that the company is exploring the possibility of developing a handheld device for the Xbox platform. Speaking to Bloomberg, Spencer shared that prototypes are being tested and market analysis is underway, though a release is likely years away.

Xbox head honcho Phil Spencer told Bloomberg on Tuesday that "the expectation is that we would do something” when it comes to a handheld gaming device. Bloomberg says that Microsoft is working on prototypes and researching the market, but that Spencer says any retail device is still a few years out.

Rumors have been flying all year that Xbox is working on a PC gaming handheld. On Wednesday, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer confirmed that plans are underway, though it sounds like an actual portable device is still a few years out.

Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has confirmed plans to develop an Xbox handheld console, aiming to compete in the mobile gaming market alongside Nintendo Switch.

For anyone paying close attention to the growing handheld gaming field, you may have seen a rumor or two over the last year that Microsoft is supposedly working on an Xbox handheld. It would stand to reason the company would jump on the bandwagon after Steam and Asus blew the doors off with wild success,

Microsoft is working on a handheld gaming device that won't be available for a few years. The success of the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck shows a market for portable gaming devices. The handheld system could be closely tied to Xbox Game Pass.

Microsoft CEO confirms development of handheld Xbox, still in prototype stage. (86 characters) Microsoft aims to replicate Nintendo's handheld success, learning from past failures. (85 characters) Introduction of handheld Xbox may expand market appeal,