Seamus Blackley reveals original Xbox switched from AMD to Intel

Seamus Blackley, a key figure in the development of the original Xbox, has revealed that the console's hardware underwent a last-minute shift from AMD to Intel. This change was publicly announced by Bill Gates during CES 2001.

Blackley noted that the initial prototypes used for launch demonstrations were actually running on AMD hardware. He recalled seeing AMD engineers in the front row during the announcement, appearing visibly disappointed. According to Blackley, the decision was driven by “pure politics” after Intel CEO Andy Grove personally called Bill Gates to secure the partnership.

Blackley issued a public apology to current AMD CEO Lisa Su regarding the incident. He noted the historical irony that modern Xbox consoles, such as the Xbox Series X and Series S, now utilize AMD architecture.