Microsoft Teams with Asus to Launch Xbox Handheld Gaming Device

Microsoft is making a bold move into handheld gaming with the upcoming release of the ROG Xbox Ally, a collaboration with PC manufacturer Asus. Set to launch in 2025, this device promises to deliver the full Xbox experience on a portable Windows-based platform, aiming to compete directly with established players like the Nintendo Switch 2 and Valve Steam Deck.

The ROG Xbox Ally comes in two variants: the standard model with 16GB of RAM and 512GB storage, and the Ally X with 24GB of RAM and 1TB storage. Both feature AMD Ryzen processors tailored for handheld gaming, a 7-inch IPS VRR screen with 1080p resolution at 120Hz, HDR support, and Xbox controller configurations including impulse triggers for immersive haptics.

What sets the Ally apart is its integration of Windows OS with a dedicated Xbox full-screen experience that streamlines gameplay by removing distractions like the taskbar. Players get quick access to an aggregated game library from multiple storefronts such as Xbox Game Pass and Battle.net, with native downloads and cloud streaming options. The device supports Xbox Cloud Gaming and Remote Play, enabling users to carry their entire Xbox console library on the go.

Ergonomics and user comfort are key design priorities. The Ally features a contoured touch and balanced pressure distribution to reduce fatigue during extended play sessions. The impulse triggers provide tactile feedback, enhancing immersion. The device’s battery life ranges from 60 watt-hours on the standard model to 80 watt-hours on the Ally X, supporting long gaming periods.

Microsoft’s partnership with Asus reflects a strategic choice to accelerate development and leverage Asus’s hardware expertise. This collaboration also addresses feedback from gamers who desired a more streamlined and cohesive gaming experience than typical Windows handheld PCs offer. The Xbox button provides instant access to the Home screen or game library, facilitating seamless navigation.

The ROG Xbox Ally also supports high-end graphics with up to an RTX 5090 Laptop GPU via the XG Mobile dock, enabling powerful gaming performance in a compact form factor. Early demos showcased smooth gameplay of titles like Gears of War: Reloaded, with easy broadcasting to larger screens, highlighting the device’s versatility.

This launch marks a significant moment for Microsoft, revisiting a handheld gaming concept it once shelved due to market challenges. Now, with advanced hardware, cloud integration, and a user-focused interface, the ROG Xbox Ally aims to redefine portable gaming by putting the power and breadth of Xbox gaming directly into players’ hands.