Load the Game

Razer and Google are working on a gaming ‘micro-console’

• Egon Kilin
• June 26th, 2014

Razer announced during Google’s I/O developers conference that they’re working on a new ‘micro-console’ in collaboration with the internet giant. Razer is well-known among gamers as it is one of the largest manufacturers of PC peripherals and game-enhancing software around. The new console will focus on gaming as well, but it will also be able to stream music, movies, and other apps. Powered by Android TV, Razer’s upcoming platform will include a feature that lets users navigate it from any Android tablet or smartphone. We know that you will need a special mobile app in order to do this, but we don’t have any other details at the moment.

Actually, at the moment the ‘micro-console’ is mostly shrouded in mystery so to speak. Neither Razer nor Google were keen on revealing too much about it so we’re left guessing for now. The idea itself sounds promising though and I’m more than a little excited to see what the final product can offer. For now all we have to go on is a statement from Ming-Liang Tan, Razer’s CEO. “This is a console of the future,” Tan explained. “Built on Google’s incredible Android TV platform, the Razer micro-console incorporates not only hardcore and casual gaming, but music, movies, and other entertainment and social applications, all on an affordable system.”

Razer didn’t give any details in regards to the specifications for their upcoming ‘micro-console’ nor did they mention anything about a possible price. “In keeping with the spirit of Google I/O, we will not be discussing specific product details at this time.” The company’s CEO does say it will be affordable, but that doesn’t tell us much. The only prototype image available at the moment hints that it will mostly work wireless. We’re not seeing any USB ports so I’m guessing the controller will probably use Bluetooth for connectivity. Hopefully we’ll be able to learn more about its specifics in the near future.

The team behind this project are the same folks that worked on the Razer Blade laptops, Razer Edge gaming tablet, and the modular PC prototype Project Christine. The latter is a very ambitious concept that was announced earlier this year. “Project Christine is a new concept design that will revolutionize the way users view the traditional PC,” Tan said. “This is the first gaming system that is able to keep pace with technology and could allow consumers to never buy another PC, or gaming system, again. We have a history of bringing incredibly innovative concept systems to market and it’s fair to say that Project Christine is a very exciting new prospect for future development.”