Microsoft is officially entering the handheld gaming market through a strategic partnership with ASUS's Republic of Gamers (ROG) division. This collaboration is set to produce two distinct Windows-based handheld consoles inspired by the Xbox ecosystem, named the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. Both devices are slated for release in late 2025, promising to bring a new level of portability and accessibility to the Xbox gaming experience.
The collaboration leverages ASUS's expertise in handheld gaming hardware, demonstrated by their existing ROG Ally, and combines it with Microsoft's Xbox software and services. The result is a device that boots directly into an Xbox-centric operating system, granting seamless access to digital Xbox games and Game Pass titles via cloud streaming. This design philosophy prioritizes user experience, enabling gamers to jump straight into their favorite titles without navigating a traditional Windows interface.
The ROG Xbox Ally is designed as an accessible entry point. It aims to provide a great value for everyone from the casual player to the avid enthusiast. On the other hand, the ROG Xbox Ally X is built for the most demanding players. Featuring the all-new AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor with 24GB Memory, 1TB Storge and 80 WHR battery, the ROG Xbox Ally X can play AAA games for hours, with plenty of user-upgradeable storage for your library.
Both models share a 7-inch, 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and variable refresh rate (VRR) support, ensuring smooth and responsive visuals. The handhelds also incorporate longer, contoured hand grips, mirroring the ergonomic design of Xbox controllers for enhanced comfort during extended gaming sessions.
The ROG Xbox Ally handhelds go beyond the Xbox ecosystem. Because these handhelds run Windows, you have access to games you can't get elsewhere, so you can enjoy the full freedom and versatility of PC gaming—download games from your favorite storefront, run apps like Discord, watch your favorite streamers on Twitch, and play with your favorite mods—all straight from the Xbox experience. The choice is yours.
Microsoft's entry into the handheld market comes at a time when dedicated gaming devices are experiencing a resurgence. The success of the Nintendo Switch and the emergence of PC-based handhelds like the Steam Deck demonstrate a clear demand for portable gaming solutions. By partnering with ROG, Microsoft is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this market, offering a compelling alternative to existing options.
