In a move mirroring Sony’s recent upgrade, Microsoft has quietly implemented a 6nm chip in its Xbox Series X and Series S consoles. While this change doesn’t translate to a performance boost in terms of CPU or GPU, it does carry significant advantages for both Microsoft and consumers.
YouTuber Austin Evans, known for his tech teardowns, was the first to uncover the new chip, revealing that the updated models boast a slightly more efficient power consumption. However, the true benefits lie in production. By switching to a 6nm chip, Microsoft is able to achieve higher yields and reduced production waste, ultimately leading to lower manufacturing costs.
These new chips, part of TSMC’s N7 family, are essentially an evolution of the 7nm chips found in the original Xbox Series X and S. The move to 6nm technology isn’t groundbreaking, but it does align with trends across the tech industry, with Sony also embracing the same technology for its PlayStation 5 consoles.
It is also worth noting that Sony implemented a 6nm chip in its revised PS5 models back in 2022, and it’s highly likely that the upcoming PlayStation 5 Pro will utilize 6nm technology as well, depending on the specific demands of its customized chipset. This demonstrates the industry-wide shift towards 6nm for its efficiency and cost benefits.
Ultimately, Microsoft’s move to 6nm is a strategic refresh aimed at optimizing production and reducing the cost of manufacturing the consoles. While the change might not be immediately noticeable to gamers, it speaks to Microsoft’s commitment to staying competitive in the gaming market by optimizing its production processes and ensuring the long-term viability of its flagship consoles.