In a move that could reshape the portable gaming market, Microsoft has finally unveiled its long-anticipated Xbox handheld devices. Announced at the 2025 Summer Game Fest, the new portable systems—developed in partnership with ASUS—are named the ROG Xbox Ally and the premium ROG Xbox Ally X. Rather than being a traditional Xbox console in mini form, these are powerful Windows 11 gaming handhelds, redesigned to offer a seamless Xbox experience on the go.
A New Era of Xbox Gaming
While rumours of a handheld Xbox have circulated for years, Microsoft has taken a strategic turn by focusing on a PC-based portable console, rather than competing directly with Nintendo Switch or the Steam Deck with native Xbox hardware. This approach lets Microsoft fully leverage its Game Pass ecosystem, Remote Play capabilities, and the flexibility of PC gaming—all wrapped in a familiar Xbox user interface.
The devices boot directly into an Xbox-style dashboard, offering controller-first navigation, cloud gaming access, and tight integration with Xbox Game Bar. From the moment you switch it on, it feels like you’re holding an Xbox in your hands—even though it runs Windows under the hood.
Hardware Specifications
Both models offer impressive specifications tailored for high-performance portable gaming:
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | AMD Ryzen Z2 A | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme |
| RAM | 16 GB | 24 GB |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD | 1 TB SSD |
| Display | 7-inch, 1080p 120Hz | Same with VRR support |
| Battery | 60 Wh | 80 Wh |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C | Same, plus improved haptics |
Both versions feature familiar Xbox-style buttons, analog sticks, and haptic feedback triggers, ensuring the ergonomics feel right at home for Xbox players.
Xbox Game Pass, Cloud Gaming, and Full PC Support
One of the standout advantages of these handhelds is access to the full Xbox ecosystem—including:
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Xbox Game Pass for PC
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Xbox Cloud Gaming
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Remote Play from your Series X/S console
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PC storefronts like Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG
This makes the ROG Xbox Ally a truly versatile hybrid device, capable of running AAA titles either natively or through streaming. Titles that support Xbox Play Anywhere allow players to enjoy the same game on console and PC with shared saves and achievements.
User Experience: A Console Feel on Windows 11
To avoid the typical complexities of Windows on handheld devices, Microsoft has introduced a custom full-screen Xbox shell that loads at startup. This user interface is tailored for gamepad navigation, with easy access to your library, cloud saves, and settings.
ASUS’s Armoury Crate software has also been revamped to integrate tightly with this experience, allowing gamers to manage performance settings, adjust fan speeds, and switch between gaming modes on the fly.
Release Date and Pricing
The Xbox handhelds are expected to launch in time for Christmas 2025, hitting major markets across the UK, Europe, North America, and Asia. While no official UK prices have been confirmed, estimates suggest:
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ROG Xbox Ally: Around £599
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ROG Xbox Ally X: Up to £999
Pre-orders are likely to open later in 2025, with bundles potentially including Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions.
The Competition: Steam Deck and Beyond
The Xbox Ally enters a market already populated by the Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally (original), and Lenovo Legion Go. However, Microsoft’s deep integration of the Xbox ecosystem—and its familiar UI—gives it an advantage with console gamers seeking a portable companion without learning new systems.
Unlike the Steam Deck, which relies on Linux-based SteamOS, the Xbox Ally runs Windows 11, allowing access to a broader range of titles, including those from Epic and Xbox Game Pass.
Final Thoughts
The ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are not just Microsoft’s response to the growing handheld gaming trend—they’re a strategic evolution of the Xbox platform. By blending the power of Windows gaming PCs with the accessibility of Xbox’s UI and Game Pass infrastructure, Microsoft is carving out a new category: the Xbox Gaming PC Handheld.
For fans of Xbox who crave mobility, or PC gamers who want Game Pass in their backpack, this could be the handheld they’ve been waiting for.
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