Xbox Series S – Microsoft's worst kept secret – is now mentioned on Xbox Game Pass packaging

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But still no confirmation

Xbox Series X controller
(Image credit: Microsoft)

The Xbox Series S has all but been confirmed by Microsoft at this point but, despite official controller packaging and Microsoft technical documents mentioning the new all-digital Xbox, the company still hasn't officially confirmed its existence.

Even though the rumored cheaper, digital-only alternative to the Xbox Series X hasn't officially been confirmed by Microsoft, that hasn't stopped the company from advertising it on official packaging, with the most recent sighting of the 'Xbox Series S' name appearing on an Xbox Game Pass trial code (included with a new Xbox One controller).

The small-print on the code details that players can use the code to access "over 100 high-quality games on Xbox Series X | S, Xbox One and Windows 10".

So why haven't we seen it yet?

It's odd that we're seeing mentions of the Xbox Series S before the console has even been announced, but it does at least confirm its existence (even if it's not 'official') and that it's announcement is likely imminent.

Rumors suggested that Microsoft was due to unveil this all-digital new Xbox at the end of August, with the console due to launch alongside the Xbox Series X in November, but that window has since passed with no announcement. So we're now expecting the company to finally announce its poorly-kept-secret sometime in September, potentially alongside the Xbox Series X price – which we also haven't had confirmation of yet. 

At least that way Microsoft can kill two birds with one stone, announcing its digital console offering, the pricing for both it and the Series X, and opening pre-orders for both. So, while the company is yet to confirm if its holding any events in September, we're expecting September to finally be the month that ties up all those loose ends, especially given that we're only two months away from the new Xbox launch.

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Vic Hood
Freelance writer

An award-winning games journalist, with seven years of experience in games journalism and a degree in journalism from City University, London, Vic brings experience from IGN, Eurogamer, The Telegraph, VG247, Dot Esports and more to the TechRadar table. You may have even heard her on the radio or speaking on a panel, as she’s previously appeared on BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 5, BBC Radio Ulster and more. Not only is Vic passionate about games, but she's appeared on both panels and podcasts to discuss mental health awareness. Make sure to follow her on Twitter for more.