Microsoft and Asus Unveil ROG Xbox Ally Handheld Gaming Devices

I Played With the ROG Xbox Ally, the Upcoming Xbox Handheld

As a Video Producer at CNET, Sean has worked on more videos than he can count. He covers video games and video game hardware along with the occasional electric bike. He covers games both on and off camera, through livestreams, press events, and podcasts. Microsoft revealed its long-rumored Xbox handheld console running Windows 11 during the Xbox Games Showcase -- two models called the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X -- and I spent a short time playing around with one soon after. Unfortunately, I wasn't allowed to take any pictures or videos of the demo, since the hardware we got to test wasn't final. That became evident when our designated guide had HDMI connection issues with the unit. I was able to play around with the Xbox full- screen experience, the various settings menus and played the beginning minutes of Gears of War Reloaded, which comes out this summer. The device is quite comfortable to hold, with slightly textured grips. The face buttons, triggers, and analog sticks all felt familiar, very similar to what I'm used to on an Xbox controller. What's really exciting is that you can download your games, remote play from your Xbox, or stream from the cloud, making this more useful than PlayStation's Portal, which can only stream and play remotely. That's one of the major benefits of being inside Xbox's ecosystem: You can play a game on any of its devices, regardless of where you bought it, whether that be Xbox consoles, PC, cloud or this new handheld. This more open-platform approach makes the Xbox Ally closer in spirit to a Steam Deck compared to a Nintendo Switch, which can only run Nintendo games. When it ships -- expected in time for the winter holidays -- you'll be able to navigate via a full-screen Xbox app, which combines your Xbox game library with installed games from several other marketplaces into a single Xbox experience. The company specifically mentioned Xbox, Game Pass, battle.net (owned by Microsoft), and "other leading PC storefronts," which I'm hoping includes Steam. Much like on an Xbox, each game has icons depicting which platform they're from. In my demo, the only example of a different storefront was Hearthstone, which had a battle.net icon. The Xbox Ally consoles use the Game Bar, and if you've used the Xbox app on PC then you'll find it familiar. In fact, pressing the new Xbox button opens an almost identical version of the guide when playing Xbox games on PC. However, there's also a new Command Center tab on the far left to adjust settings for power consumption and performance, similar to what we've seen on Steam Deck. In Game Bar you can quickly jump to the home screen, your library, launch games, open apps, chat with friends, adjust settings and more. And this Game Bar works alongside Asus's Armoury Crate overlay. This is a little worrisome, as Armoury Crate has usually felt more like unnecessary bloatware, but when we get to test the device later this year we'll see if Asus has stripped it down to the relevant functions rather than just added more on top. Since it's a Windows 11 device, you'll also be able to launch and use apps like Discord and Twitch and access game mods. The Xbox Ally boots directly into the "Xbox full screen experience" similar to how a Steam Deck launches into Big Picture mode. The full-screen experience is optimized specifically for handheld gaming, and Xbox told me the device minimizes background activity and allocates more system resources to gameplay like Game Mode does on Windows. This means more memory and potentially higher framerates for your games. The ROG Ally and Ally X have been out for a bit now, but the Xbox models have some unique features. In addition to the Xbox button, the ROG Xbox Ally also has larger, contoured grips. The previous ROG Ally is more rectangular; the Xbox Ally is closer to the design of the PlayStation Portal, with dedicated, slightly separated hand grips that mimic the look and feel of a standard game controller. They also have upgraded components over the Asus versions. The handheld comes in two options, a white Xbox Ally and the more powerful Xbox Ally X which comes in black. The lower-end Ally is powered by a AMD Ryzen Z2A processor, comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage, weighs 23.6 oz/670g, and has a 60Wh battery. The Ally X has a AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of RAM, 1TB of SSD storage, weighs a bit more at 25.2 oz/715g, and has a 80Wh battery. Both models are equipped with a 7-inch,120Hz 1080p screen, the same as on the original Asus versions of the devices. They also have RGB lights surrounding the analog sticks, something I hope I'll be able to turn off when I spend some real time playing on the device. The Ally X did feel on the heavier side, but then again the recently released Switch 2 and my Steam Deck OLED are also pretty heavy so I think that's just what handhelds weigh these days. Xbox hasn't yet revealed the pricing or release date, aside from "this holiday."

Asus partners with Microsoft launch first Xbox gaming handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X

After numerous reports and speculation, Microsoft has finally come up with its very first Xbox handheld. Well, sort of. The company has paired up with Asus to launch the new ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X at its ongoing Xbox Games Showcase. Both models feature an updated design that includes large, contoured grips similar to those found on an Xbox controller. In fact, that's the route both companies are taking. According to Asus, they have worked on the feedback received for the original ROG Ally and Ally X, and went ahead to create this fusion that is part ROG Ally and part Xbox controller. It also includes an updated textured pattern as well as impulse triggers that add haptic feedback to the trigger buttons. Asus also claims that the new ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are the most 'comfortable and immersive' handhelds that they've ever built, even though they are thicker and slightly heavier compared to the previous ROG Ally models, as well as the Steam Deck. The joysticks are similar to the original ROG Ally X, and even the button layout seems similar, apart from the addition of a new dedicated Xbox button near the left joystick. This can be used to bring up the Game Bar, which has been updated to be more useful on a handheld device. Notably, the launch coincides with AMD's latest announcement, where it added two new models to its Ryzen Z2 series of processors. The new ROG Xbox Ally X will be powered by the latest Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chipset, which features an 8-core/16-thread CPU, 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores, and an NPU capable of offering up to 50 TOPS of AI compute power. It will also feature 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory, a 1TB M.2 2280 SSD, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.4. The I/O port layout is pretty much the same as last year's model, although one of the two USB Type-C ports on the ROG Xbox Ally X is now upgraded to USB 4. As for the battery, there's an 80Wh unit, which should last longer than most handheld devices on the market. On the other hand, the ROG Xbox Ally appears to be a budget-friendly option, as it is powered by the entry-level Ryzen 2 A processor. The chip features a 4-core/8-thread CPU based on AMD's aging Zen 2 architecture, 8 RDNA 2 graphics cores, and a configurable TDP ranging from 6 to 20W. It also comes with slower 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 memory, a 512GB M.2 2280 SSD, and a smaller 60Wh battery. Asus hasn't made any changes to the display, hence you get the same 7-inch display as the ROG Ally X, offering a 1080 resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, and support for VRR and FreeSync Premium. As for the software, the ROG Xbox Ally devices will power directly into an Xbox view. However, you continue to get Windows 11 underneath with minor refinements. This means that one should be able to install other game launchers, such as Steam and Epic Games, among others. There is an updated ROG Armoury Crate Special Edition software, while quick access to settings and customizable widgets will also be available within Game Bar. Pricing has not been confirmed, but both models be available during the holiday season in 28 countries including Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Eventually, it will be launched in other regions where the original ROG Ally models are currently sold.

Xbox's New Handheld PC With Asus Is Official, Coming Later This Year

Microsoft and Asus have partnered on two new handheld consoles that take the best bits of an Xbox and merge it with the former's ROG Ally series of handhelds. The first Xbox-branded handheld console is here, but it's not made solely by Microsoft. It's instead a partnership between Asus and Microsoft making a new version of the latter's ROG Ally handheld consoles and combining it with some of the best elements of the Xbox ecosystem. Announced during Microsoft's Xbox Games Showcase for 2025, the company introduced the two new handhelds called the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. Both are similar to the Asus ROG Ally X from 2024, and each will be available to buy by the end of the year. However, an exact release date has yet to be revealed. The ROG Xbox Ally X is the top-end handheld with a new AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme powering the device alongside 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM and 1TB of storage to fit in all your games. The display is a 7-inch Full HD panel with a peak brightness of 500 nits and 120Hz refresh rate. There's an 80Wh battery inside the Xbox Ally X, which should see it power long gaming sessions. The battery size matches the Asus ROG Ally X, which in PCMag's testing had a remarkably long life. In our review, we found the handheld was able to play over two and a half hours of Cyberpunk 2077, which is better than a lot of the competition in the handheld space. We don't yet have pricing for these consoles, but expect the ROG Xbox Ally to be cheaper as it has a lower spec. This handheld features a 60Wh battery, an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. It also doesn't include Thunderbolt 4 support either, and this version opts for two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The ROG Xbox Ally X features one of those ports paired with a USB4 port. The handhelds themselves appear to be similar to each other with exactly the same dimensions for each, but the weights are different at 670g for the cheaper variant and 715g for the one with the biggest battery. Both come with a stand and charger included in the box. As for the design, Microsoft says these have been worked on together by the two companies to bring Xbox-like design to the handheld. Microsoft says it has included "contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers" to give you "all-day comfort, complete with impulse triggers for enhanced control." There's also a dedicated Xbox button on the console to get you back to playing games quickly. Those at IGN had time to try out the new consoles over the weekend. Their hands on says, "It feels like you're holding an actual controller, so it has the comfort and performance you expect from a proper gaming platform." Each new console runs a version of Windows 11 Home, but this isn't the normal version you'd find on your desktop. This is gaming-focused, and the main aim here is to keep you in the Xbox UI designed for these consoles. You can import games from other storefronts like Steam or Epic Games, and of course you'll have access to Xbox Game Pass if you subscribe. Microsoft says it'll also be updating ads for new games to tell you when a title has been optimized for either of these handhelds. A rumor back in May suggested Microsoft had paused work on its own in-house handheld to move resources around in an effort to further develop Windows 11's handheld gaming platform. It's thought the imminent release of these products made Microsoft realize it had to improve the platform to better compete with Valve's SteamOS alternative. The Verge reports that Microsoft plans to bring this software to other handhelds, including consoles you may already own. Head of Xbox devices, Roanne Sones, told The Verge, "Our next focus will be updating the in-market ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X. Similar full-screen Xbox experiences will be rolling out to other Windows handhelds, starting next year."

ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming devices are real and will be released during the 2025 holiday season

The portable PCs will run on Windows 11 and offer access to Steam, GOG and Ubisoft Connect. We've been hearing rumors for what feels like an eternity about Microsoft working with ASUS' ROG division on a gaming handheld device, and we got confirmation during the Xbox Games Showcase at Summer Game Fest. There are two variants of the handheld: the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. Microsoft hasn't reveal pricing for the devices as yet. It stands to reason that they'll be in the same ballpark as the currently ROG Ally systems, which cost up to $800 for the ROG Ally X. Details on how much the systems cost, pre-orders, accessories and more are coming soon, the company said. The exact release date is not yet known but the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are coming this holiday season. The handhelds will initially be available in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and, shockingly enough, the US. Xbox head Sarah Bond says that every game included in the showcase will be playable on the Xbox Ally, but didn't make clear whether all of those would run natively on the devices. The reveal trailer also included a notable focus on Hollow Knight: Silksong, for what it's worth (and it was reaffirmed that the game is still set to come out this year). Critically, Microsoft and ROG aren't locking the devices to only playing Xbox games (though you can play those natively, via the cloud or by accessing an Xbox console remotely). You'll be able to play games from Battle.net and "other leading PC storefronts" too -- those include Steam, GOG and Ubisoft Connect. Obviously, there's Game Pass integration here, as well as support for the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, which enables you to play games with synced progress across a swathe of devices after buying them once. Microsoft says it has teamed up with Roblox to make that game natively playable on a gaming handheld for the first time. It's working with third-party developers on a Steam Deck-style program to make it clear which games have been optimized for handhelds, including the Xbox Ally systems. Expect more details on that down the line. In addition, it seems that those who snap up an Xbox Ally or Ally X and haven't yet tried out Game Pass will get a free trial. Microsoft has designed a full-screen Xbox user interface for the handhelds. There's a dedicated physical Xbox button that can bring up a Game Bar overlay, which seemingly makes it easy to switch between apps and games, tweak settings, start chatting with friends and more. Accessibility features from Xbox consoles and PCs will be available too, along with the Gaming Copilot. Naturally, the systems run on Windows 11. Microsoft says it has optimized the operating system for the devices, with easy access to device and input controls via ASUS' Armoury Crate. The company added that "the lock screen and task switcher have also been adjusted for easy navigation with a controller." You'll be able to mod games on either system as well. The Xbox Ally is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor, and has 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage. The Xbox Ally X is the more powerful model. It has a AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. They each have a microSD card reader, so you won't need to worry about shelling out for proprietary storage to have extra space for your games. The two models seem to have the same screen, a seven-inch 1080p, 16:9 display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits of brightness. The anti-reflection displays will feature Corning Gorilla Glass Victus and support FreeSync Premium. Both systems boast "HD haptics." The Xbox Ally has hall effect analog triggers, while the Xbox Ally X has "impulse triggers for enhanced control." It sounds a little like Microsoft and ASUS are taking a page out of the PlayStation DualSense playbook there. Anyway, both of the Xbox Ally systems have two assignable back buttons and 6-axis IMU -- a fancy way of saying that they'll probably have gyro controls. Blessedly, both of the handhelds have a 3.5mm combo audio jack, along with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4. The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are exactly the same size at 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7mm . They each weigh more than the Nintendo Switch 2 (534g or 1.18lbs with Joy-Con 2 attached) and PlayStation Portal (520g or 1.15 lbs). The Xbox Ally is marginally heavier than the Steam Deck (669g or 1.47lbs) at 670g. The Xbox Ally X is even beefier at 715g (1.58lbs). For the record, the ROG Ally is 608g (1.34 lbs) and the Ally X is 678 grams (1.5 lbs). So, they're both chonksters, but at least those grips look more ergonomic than those on the Nintendo Switch 2 (which is already cramping my hands) or even the Steam Deck. Microsoft says the design principles of Xbox Wireless Controller was adopted for the Xbox Ally handgrips. Both systems will be capable of outputting video to a TV or monitor, as they have two USB-C ports with support for DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery 3.0. One of the Xbox Ally X's USB-C ports is compatible with ThunderBolt 4. It also has a larger battery, with a capacity of 80Wh compared with the Xbox Ally's 60Wh battery. Both models come with a charging stand. Microsoft has spent the last few years expanding the Xbox ecosystem beyond consoles and PC through efforts like Xbox Cloud Gaming. Its first official move into gaming handhelds is a big step as it tries to play catch up to PlayStation and Nintendo.

Microsoft and Asus unveil ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X: Windows 11 handhelds with multi-store gaming

Serving tech enthusiasts for over 25 years. TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust. What just happened? After all the leaks and rumors related to the devices, Microsoft and Asus have finally revealed two new ROG Ally handhelds: the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. The Windows 11-powered devices will allow users to play "all of the games available on Windows," including those from storefronts like Steam and Epic, Game Pass, and Xbox. Microsoft says these titles will be available through an "aggregated gaming library." There have been reports of the "Project Kennan" Xbox-branded handhelds for some time now, including leaked FCC images in May. The reveal confirms that both devices feature a 7-inch 1080p IPS screen with 500 nits of brightness, a 120Hz refresh rate and VRR support. They also come with dual speakers, Dolby Atmos, upgradable storage, Wi-Fi 6E (2x2), and Bluetooth 5.4. Both measure 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7mm. As for the differences, the less powerful ROG Xbox Ally (the white one) packs the new AMD Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16GB of LPDDR5X-6400 RAM, a 60Wh battery, and 512GB of M.2 2280 SSD storage. It weighs 670 grams, almost the same as the Steam Deck. The more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X (black) uses AMD's Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory, and a 1TB M.2 2280 SSD. It's slightly heavier than its sibling at 715 grams. The Xbox Ally uses Hall effect analog triggers, while the Xbox Ally X has impulse triggers for "enhanced control." Port-wise, both handhelds have two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports with support for DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery 3.0, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm combo audio jack. The Xbox Ally X supports Thunderbolt 4 on one of its type-C ports. Probably the most interesting element of the handhelds is the software. Microsoft says they will boot into the new "Xbox Experience for Handheld" full-screen interface. This will minimize background activity and defer non-essential Windows tasks, helping to boost gaming performance. From here, you can access all your games from the Microsoft Store, Battle.net, and other major storefronts, including Steam and Epic Games. You can also access your Xbox console library via Xbox Cloud Gaming or Remote Play to an Xbox console. You'll also be able to mod games on both systems. Microsoft says it is working on a program for identifying Windows titles that have been optimized for handhelds, similar to Valve's Deck Verified program for the Steam Deck. The new Ally models also come with an Xbox button on the left side of the screen. This launches an Xbox Game Bar overlay, where users can alter settings, chat with friends, fast-switch between titles, and more. Microsoft said the Xbox Ally handhelds will arrive this holiday season but has yet to reveal the prices. The Xbox Ally X will be a "premium" option, so expect it to cost more than $1,000.

Microsoft reveals new handheld Xbox Ally gaming PC in partnership with Asus

After months of rumors, Microsoft officially debuted its ROG Xbox Ally gaming PC on Sunday, made in collaboration with Taiwanese computer company Asus. The ROG Xbox Ally is planned to ship this holiday season with two separate SKUs, with the same scheme and coloration as the Xbox Series X|S console. The white Ally is a lower-powered model aimed at casual players, while the more expensive black Xbox Ally X is billed as the "ultimate high-performance handheld." No prices have been announced. Both models of Xbox Ally are custom-made versions of Asus' ROG Ally handheld unit, with exclusive features such as a dedicated Xbox guide button. They're designed to support local native downloads, remote play by connecting to a local Xbox console, or streaming gameplay through the newly-rebranded Xbox Cloud. According to Microsoft, the Xbox Ally runs an optimized version of Windows 11 Home that integrates features from both Microsoft's Game Bar and Asus' Armoury Crate app. The Windows OS also lets you install games from multiple digital storefronts such as Battle.net and Steam, or use apps such as Discord. The Xbox Ally is also stated to feature a "Xbox full screen experience" that aggregates all your games from every available library connected to the device, eliminating the need to hunt through all your various apps to find what you're looking for. Both versions of the Ally are planned to ship with the recently-announced Copilot for Gaming integrated into the Game Bar, billed by Xbox as an AI-powered "personalized gaming companion." The Xbox Ally X is also powered by an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, which is designed to "power the latest AI features as they are introduced." The Xbox Ally was revealed as part of this year's Xbox Showcase, a 90-minute presentation held as part of the annual Summer Games Fest in Los Angeles. While past Showcases have been broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater, this year's was pre-recorded, with segments hosted by Microsoft's Sarah Bond, Matt Booty, and Phil Spencer. Bond made a point of noting during the Showcase that every game that was shown this year will ship day-and-date on both Xbox Game Pass and will be compatible at launch with the Xbox Ally. One big surprise about the Xbox Ally, mentioned almost in passing during the Showcase, is that the long-awaited indie platformer Hollow Knight: Silksong is currently scheduled as a "launch title" for the Ally. This is the first mention of Silksong anywhere during Summer Games Fest, which is a shock, as "where's Silksong?" has been a running joke during every major gaming show for the last couple of years. In a slightly lower-key detail, this was the first Xbox Showcase held after Microsoft's recent move into cross-platform publishing. While no specific announcements were made on the topic, every game that's also headed to competing storefronts like the PlayStation 5 or Steam was labeled as such during the 2025 Showcase. That was not the case in previous years' shows. Other announcements at this year's Xbox Showcase included:

The ROG Xbox Ally is Microsoft's big swing for PC gaming handhelds

Asus made heavy revisions to the Ally for itsa new Xbox-branded model, though it's still running Windows 11 underneath. We've seen it teased, we've seen it leaked, but the first "portable Xbox" (those quotes are doing a lot of work, yes) was revealed last night during Microsoft's latest Xbox gaming showcase. As expected, it's a co-op play with Asus, who essentially rebranded the ROG Ally with some Xbox flair. But make no mistake: despite the marketing that proclaims "This is an Xbox," the ROG Xbox Ally is a handheld PC. I appreciate that the line between console and PC is blurry, perhaps intentionally so thanks to Microsoft. But the ROG Xbox Ally and the more powerful, upgraded ROG Xbox Ally X are essentially third-generation Asus handheld PC designs. And just like the two previous versions, they're running Windows 11 out of the box, offering a sharp distinction to competition like the SteamOS-powered Lenovo Legion Go S. But with both Microsoft and Asus cognizant of the issues handheld PCs have had around Windows, it's not without some serious tweaks. According to the promotional page, this version of Windows 11 has a "smoother, more intuitive interface" with a Steam Deck-style handheld UI set to launch by default upon booting up. That includes a refreshed Xbox Game Bar. Microsoft is also leaning into the work it's done with Xbox Game Pass, highlighting the availability of plenty of Xbox-only games via streaming and its huge library of games available on both Xbox and PC with seamless progress via the Xbox Play Anywhere system. "I don't have to think about Windows, all I have to think about is my game," says Anshul Rawat of Microsoft in a promo video. Of course, since it is running Windows underneath, the new design still has access to basically any local PC game -- a notable weakness of SteamOS and the Steam Deck. Microsoft is also leaning on options for streaming, both via Game Pass and remote play to other PCs and Xbox consoles. You can check out the very BWAH-infused trailer below: How much this will improve the experience overall, we can't say yet. Windows 11 still has a lot of stuff going on under the hood that can bog things down for the efficient APU hardware of handhelds. And speaking of which, the ROG Xbox Ally is packing a lot of revised hardware compared to the Ally X of 2024. The base model (in white) gets a next-gen AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of LPDDRX-6400 RAM, and a 512GB SSD. The ROG Xbox Ally X in black (which is an upgraded SKU, not a fully separate design like the 2024 version) gets a Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor with an NPU, 24GB of RAM, and a 1TB drive. Both get two USB-C ports (one of which is Thunderbolt 4-compatible for external graphics) and a microSD card slot. The base model has a 60 watt-hour battery while the Xbox Ally X gets 80 watt-hours -- an odd choice since they appear to have identical shells. Note the RGB rings around the thumbsticks and the stripe on the back, both inherited from the original ROG Ally design. Both are rocking a 7-inch IPS display with 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh, just like the original Ally. But the shape and look of the device has seen some big revisions, most notably the distinct, chunky controller handles. There's also a new face button with an Xbox logo, dedicated to the Xbox Game Bar. The Ally X, in addition to its beefed-up internals and black color scheme, gets haptic feedback on the controller triggers. Both systems should land at retailers later this year with a general "Holiday 2025" arrival. How much will they cost? No idea. For context, the ROG Ally X from 2024 is currently $900 to $1,000 at Best Buy depending on configuration. Based on the hardware, I'd expect the new ROG Xbox Ally to be in the same ballpark... a heavy contrast to the Steam Deck, which starts at $400 and tops out at $650 with an OLED screen.

ROG Xbox Ally is coming for Steam Deck, not Nintendo Switch 2 -- here's why

Xbox is getting serious about its "Play Anywhere" promise, with the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X finally being revealed. And now, Microsoft has its very own gaming handheld -- right off the bat of the Nintendo Switch 2. Being from one of the Big 3 in gaming (Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo), I'd be forgiven for thinking that the Xbox Ally X would be rivaling the Switch 2. I mean, they're both handhelds, after all. But this is a different beast, one that aims to take on the best PC gaming handhelds. But not just in hardware; the software behind Asus and Microsoft's joint venture is arguably the most important feature to come out of the ROG Xbox Ally. No more Windows 11 holding PC-based handhelds back, like the Lenovo Legion Go S or the Asus ROG Ally X. Now, the new Xbox Experience for Handheld feature brings gameplay to the forefront. If that sounds familiar, it should. Valve's SteamOS, made popular thanks to the Steam Deck, has been doing this for a while, and it's what made Steam's portable console a win over other handhelds. With the upcoming Xbox overlay set to arrive in the ROG Xbox Ally consoles, though, it's clear Microsoft has Steam in its sights. How so? Well, the Xbox "full screen experience" won't just be exclusive to the ROG Xbox Ally systems -- more handhelds are getting it down the line. Valve's OS is coming to handhelds outside the Steam Deck, including the Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS, but so is the Xbox app -- eventually. As Xbox confirmed to Windows Central and The Verge, the Xbox Experience app will be coming to more PC handhelds and that's a big deal. In fact, it's only exclusive to the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X until "early 2026," as it will then be coming to more portable consoles, like the Lenovo Legion Go, MSI Claw and more. "The Xbox full-screen experience will first come to the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, and our next focus will be updating the in-market ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X," states Roanne Sones, VP of gaming devices and ecosystem at Xbox. "Similar full-screen Xbox experiences will be rolling out to other Windows handhelds, starting next year." Rather than the hardware itself, it's the Xbox UI overlay that will change the scope of Windows handhelds on the market. We've seen how putting SteamOS on a ROG Ally X can not only boost performance, but battery life, too. And for a portable gaming console, those are the two most important factors that can make or break a handheld device. That's exactly what the Xbox Experience app aims to achieve: "With new modifications that minimize background activity and defer non-essential tasks, more system resources are dedicated specifically to gameplay," Xbox confirms. "That means more memory, higher framerates, and a fully immersive experience for players." Other perks like getting quick access to all your PC games through the overlay, such as Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net and, of course, Steam, is hugely welcome. Better yet, just as Steam does, Microsoft is working on a program that can show which games have been optimized for handhelds. So, it won't just be "Steam Deck verified" games anymore, you'll see ROG Xbox Ally, Legion Go S, MSI Claw optimized titles, too. Moreover, you can expect quick access to settings and customisable widgets via Game Bar with a single press of the Xbox button, and since it's still powered by Windows 11, games and mods from other sources are still easily accessible and customizable. Of course, we'll have to get hands-on time with the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X to see how Microsoft's new gaming handheld-focused overlay benefits portable systems. But one thing's clear, Xbox finally has a way to compete with SteamOS, and handheld gaming for all is about to get that much sweeter. The Nintendo Switch 2 may impress with its upgraded internals, including its custom processor from Nvidia, allowing it to play versions of AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 made for the system, but the ROG Xbox Ally can play the same PC titles outright -- no special versions needed. PC gaming handhelds have been able to do this for a while, but help from the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor for the Xbox Ally X looks to make it all the more impressive. With Zen 5 architecture, 8 CPU cores, 16 GPU cores, 16 threads, up to 5GHz max boost clock, up to 35 watts for power and RDNA 3.5, this handheld is expected to sing. The Xbox Games Showcase showed off all the games that will run on ROG Xbox Ally devices, including a claimed 60 FPS at 1080p for Gears of War: Reloaded. But we've also seen how the MSI Claw A8 with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip deliver 100 FPS in Lies of P. Seeing how new titles like Ninja Gaiden 4, Clockwork Revolution and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 perform will be interesting to see, and I can imagine the base ROG Xbox Ally with its AMD Ryzen Z2 A (Zen 2 architecture, 4 CPU cores/8 threads, 20 watts) will better handle less demanding titles like, say, Hollow Knight: Silksong. Will the Steam Deck be able to handle these games? Sure, but probably not with comparably higher settings with its custom AMD Zen 2 "Van Gogh" APU. And while the Switch 2 will get a few of what Xbox showed off, like Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade and more (along with its own exclusive titles), the ROG Xbox Ally is set to be a different beast. A huge outlier is the price of Xbox's upcoming handhelds. We know both the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X will launch this fall, but we haven't heard a peep out of Microsoft or Asus on how much these will cost. If I had to venture a guess, considering the prices of other recent handhelds, the ROG Xbox Ally will be around $599 or less (similar to the Legion Go S with AMD Ryzen Z2 Go), while the ROG Xbox Ally X could drop somewhere between $799 to $999 (like the MSI Claw 8 AI+ or ROG Ally X). That alone sets the handhelds leagues apart from the $449 Switch 2, falling more in line with the pricier $649 Steam Deck OLED. That's all if these predictions are accurate, though, as tariffs are sure to drive up costs more than we'd like to see. Regardless, while Xbox has finally journeyed into the realm of handheld gaming with its own device, thanks to its partnership with Asus, it's the software behind the ROG Xbox Ally that will finally give Valve's dominance on handhelds a run for its money. Nintendo may not have to worry about Xbox when it comes to handhelds with its Switch 2, but Microsoft is looking to shake up handheld gaming PCs -- all the more reason for a Steam Deck 2 to enter the ring.

Xbox's rumored handheld console is real and it's called ROG Xbox Ally

About a month ago, images leaked of an Xbox-branded gaming handheld that looked a lot like an Asus ROG Ally. Now we know why. During a showcase livestream on Sunday, Microsoft's gaming division confirmed the device's existence in an official capacity. Well, there are two devices, actually: The ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. They both appear to take the basic concept of the original ROG Ally and adapt it for Xbox players by adding controller-like grips and a new user interface that retains all the compatibility with Windows while presenting things in a more game console-like manner. Both devices will launch this holiday season, but unfortunately, you'll have to wait to find out how much they cost and when you can pre-order them. Microsoft has an online sign-up page for pre-order info whenever that becomes available. The main reason why you might want to get one of these instead of a Steam Deck is if you're already an avid Xbox Game Pass user. Microsoft is promising the full suite of Game Pass features, such as local downloads, game streaming, and remote play. It's possible to access Game Pass on a Steam Deck if you feel like jumping through some technical hoops, but by default, that device is locked to whatever is on your Steam library. Since the Xbox Ally consoles are Windows-based, you can access any PC gaming library you want as long as it's compatible with Windows. The central UI will consolidate all of your games across every app into one place, too, which is nice. As for specs, both Xbox Ally handhelds have the same 7-inch 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate, putting it roughly in line with the Nintendo Switch 2. The Xbox Ally has an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, while the Ally X has a more powerful Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, meaning it will be more powerful and certainly more expensive, too. Other differences between the two models that we know about right now mostly come down to memory and storage. The base Xbox Ally has 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, while the Ally X has 24GB RAM and 1TB storage. Other, more detailed specs will have to wait until later. In many ways, this is a better value proposition right now than a Steam Deck, but it's also possible that the Xbox Ally costs significantly more. And there's only one gaming handheld that can (legally and legitimately) play Mario Kart World.

'Inconceivable even three years ago': hands-on with Xbox's flashy new handheld console

The new ROG Xbox Ally handheld games machines will be available at the end of the year - here's what it's like to play on one Just a few days after Nintendo finally released its follow-up to the Switch, Microsoft has announced its own long-rumoured handheld console: the Xbox Ally. This is a very big deal, not just because it marks the first time Xbox has co-branded a console (with high-end PC specialists Republic of Gamers), but because it's packing top-of-the-line hardware under its hood. I played the Xbox Ally X, one of two models coming before Christmas, a few hours after they were revealed during 8 June's Xbox Showcase, and can easily see it becoming a serious competitor for both the Switch 2 and Valve's Steam Deck. The Xbox Ally springs from the coupling of four different tech firms: Windows, Xbox, AMD and Asus, and it's definitely their golden child. Both the Xbox Ally and Ally X models have 7-inch 1080p touchscreens, with 16GB of RAM in the Ally and 24GB of RAM in the Ally X, and 512GB SSD storage and 1TB, respectively. Each has Ryzen Z2 chips, though Xbox Ally X has the AI Z2 chip, which integrates an AI processor directly into the silicon. As for what that actually means for players, Microsoft's head of gaming devices, Roanne Sones, said during a presentation that players will be able to "take advantage of AI experiences without having to compromise anything on the GPU". The devices both run Windows, but the team has modified it for optimal gaming. "We're not loading up the Windows desktop," Xbox Experiences VP Jason Beaumont said. "We're not loading up the icons and the task bar and components that really aren't about playing video games ... we can save a bunch of resources and then give those to the game, so that they can perform better." You can access your collection of games with a library button on the device (there's also a new Xbox button that functions similarly to the one on a console controller). This library includes your PC games from Xbox and other stores, and will let you stream games from your existing Xbox console, if you own one. If you have an Xbox Game Pass subscription, hundreds of games are available to play on the Allies straight away. During Microsoft's presentation in LA, I'm handed an Xbox Ally X over my right shoulder. I have rather small hands, and this thing is big (and heavier than the Switch 2), but it doesn't feel overwhelming. As a gamer who prefers the ergonomics of an Xbox controller to a PlayStation DualSense, I appreciate the asymmetrical joysticks and how the outer curvature mimics the Xbox pad. The Xbox Ally X boots up immediately into a homepage that shows your most recently played Xbox games, styled much like the console homepage. We're told to navigate to Gears of War: Reloaded, a remaster of the 2006 classic that's launching on 26 August. As a huge Gears fan, the effect of loading a beautifully remastered version of a game I haven't played in nearly 20 years on a console held between my palms is pretty wild. Muscle memory immediately kicks in: press A to magnet Marcus to a chest-high wall, reload your gun faster by timing a press of the R1 button - except I'm holding this game that shaped my teen years in my lap. I don't get more than 10 minutes with Gears of War: Reloaded before the Xbox Ally X is somewhat unceremoniously plucked from my hands, and we're shown a quick summary video with talking heads from Microsoft, Windows, ASUS and AMD. One of them says that the power and capabilities of the Xbox Ally X were "inconceivable even three years ago". There's no price point yet, perhaps because the uncertainty of President Trump's tariffs has Microsoft hesitant to name one at the moment. However, the look, feel, and function of the ROG Xbox Ally will make it a great option for those looking to access both Xbox and third-party games on a portable console, while the Xbox Ally X seems tailor-made for performance perfectionists. The price will be a huge factor: even the cheaper Ally console is likely to be more expensive than Nintendo's new Switch 2. But as someone who doesn't really play Nintendo games, and who only briefly had a Steam Deck before giving it to a friend, the ROG Xbox Ally is the first handheld I can see myself picking up and regularly playing.

Microsoft's ROG Xbox Ally will feature a new "Xbox full-screen experience" to finally rival the Steam Deck's ease of use - and more Windows 11 gaming handhelds will get it too

The new "full-screen experience" will help streamline gaming for handheld users with a portable-friendly user interface Microsoft has been looking into ways to improve the gaming experience for handheld users, after the recent reception and high praise that Valve's SteamOS has received for its performance leaps over Windows 11 - and it looks like Microsoft has taken its first major leap in doing so. As reported by The Verge, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will feature a new "Xbox full-screen experience" providing a streamlined handheld-friendly gaming user interface, which will also make its way to other Windows 11 handhelds in 2026. All games from other stores and applications such as Discord, Battle.net, Steam, and other game launchers will be accessible via the updated Xbox app. It's been a long time coming, since handheld users have longed for an improved portable version of Windows 11 for gaming, akin to Valve's SteamOS; the idea is to create a simple start-up-and-play experience, without navigating to other launchers to find games. Essentially, this creates an all-in-one hub for gaming and removes many of the frequent Windows pop-ups and notifications. Perhaps the biggest question is the impact it will have on performance, and whether this will match up with SteamOS or surpass it. Besides Windows 11's drawbacks in ease of use, performance is currently the other strong appeal of SteamOS for handheld users. Happily, Xbox's software engineering lead, Brianna Potvin, claimed that 2GB of memory is going back into games while in the new full-screen mode - and it's expected we'll see further improvements by the time it's available for the ROG Xbox Ally. With the MSI Claw A8 using AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme and the ROG Xbox Ally using the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, both slated to launch this year, it's a strong indication that 2026 and beyond could be great for handheld gamers. MSI has already left a strong impression with its Claw 8 AI+, showcasing efficiency with ideal gaming performance results at a 17W TDP - and it's all possible thanks to Intel's Core Ultra 7 258V processor. Team Red's Z2 Extreme processors (especially the AI version) are expected to challenge the Lunar Lake SoC, all while we anticipate Panther Lake and Medusa Point coming from Intel and AMD, respectively, to push things further. Both the ROG Xbox Ally and the Claw A8 won't be the only Z2 Extreme-based handhelds either, as we're still awaiting the Lenovo Legion Go 2. The more handhelds there are, the better, and I'm excited to see just how these mobile processors can go at providing high-level gaming performance.

The ROG Xbox Ally fixes the worst problem with Windows handhelds

A few years ago, there was a moment when I felt like the only thing that could make the Steam Deck better was if it would ditch Linux for Windows. That turned out to be one heck of a monkey's paw. As soon as competing handhelds flooded the market, all equipped with Microsoft's OS, I realized exactly why Valve didn't go in that direction. Windows is a total pain to navigate in devices like the Legion Go for countless reasons. The Steam Deck was protecting me from myself all this time. So forgive me if I was a little skeptical when Microsoft revealed the ROG Xbox Ally. While I used to dream of a portable device like this that was built around Xbox Game Pass, I was filled with some mild dread when the big day finally came. I just didn't want to struggle with another Windows handheld. Thankfully, Asus and Microsoft have seemingly read the room. Following the device's announcement at the Xbox Games Showcase, Digital Trends went hands-on with the handheld and learned much more about its internals. The good news? All of the pesky parts of Windows have been cut out in favor of a more focused gaming device. Recommended Videos The most important thing I learned is that this isn't simply a regular ROG Ally with an Xbox logo slapped on the box. Sure, its guts may have some similarities, but key parts of it have been rebuilt. That starts with the design, as the Xbox Ally trades in rounded edges for traditional controller grips to bring the device more in line with a gamepad. That puts it somewhere between a ROG Ally and a PlayStation Portal in terms of comfort. Impulse triggers further soup the package up, which is a nice touch. The only problem is that it's quite heavy. Even after no more than 10 minutes holding it up, I could definitely feel some strain forming in my wrist. There are plenty of specs to pour over here, including the pricier Xbox Ally X's Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme or its 120Hz display, but the most important thing about it is that Windows has been entirely redesigned for it. Microsoft has taken a page out of Valve's playbook and crafted its own bespoke gaming UI here. The main menu is similar to that of the Steam Deck's showing off all recently played games in a tidy little row. Any games downloaded on the device will show up in the UI, so it isn't only compatible with Game Pass titles. It's an all-in-one approach to PC gaming under an Xbox branding. The best part of that is that Microsoft has slashed how many pieces of Windows runs while that view is open. Anything that's not necessary to gaming simply won't be active, so you won't have to worry about the calendar app suddenly taking you out of games. That's an enormous improvement, as the unwieldy nature of handheld Windows often makes these devices so cumbersome to use. Even the sign in UI has been redesigned and built around controller support, with key features like Wi-Fi accessible with some simple controller clicks. Players can still launch a normal version of Windows, but it's no longer the default experience when booting the system up. It's not just about cutting out some minor annoyances; slashing these features saves 2GB. It makes the machine far more efficient, which finally makes gaming on a portable version of Windows more viable. In my demo, I'd play a small slice of Gears of War: Reloaded, which ran shockingly well considering that it's a fairly robust remaster. I didn't have enough time with the system to do a full benchmark test, but I was getting a much clearer image at a stable framerate than I would have expected. Xbox even plans to make it easy to tell how well games can run on it with its own version of Steam Deck's verification system. The plan is now just to tell people if a game can run on the handheld, but how well it runs too. Asus' goal here is to streamline the UI all around and it goes a long way. For instance, I can press the Xbox logo on the left side of the device to pull up a pop-up menu that features just about everything I'd need in an Xbox experience. Even better is that the menu also includes Asus' Armoury Crate app rather than siloing it off into a separate menu. That's a small consideration, but it's one that condenses every key menu in one place. I'll no longer have to fumble around separate menus to find whatever thing I'm looking to tweak or access. I only got a short introduction to the handheld, which wasn't nearly enough time to test its power or see how thoroughly it catalogues games from any service into the Xbox interface. Part of me still feels like there must be some sort of hidden trade off that comes with slashing Windows down. Every portable device has some kind of catch and I'm sure we'll discover the Xbox Ally's in due time. For now though, I'm optimistic that Asus has fixed the biggest problem with its devices and invented a viable alternative to SteamOS. If this works as well as it seems to, I imagine that Microsoft may salvage its handheld reputation just yet.

Xbox Ally X handheld using new AI tech in 'ways that haven't even been imagined'

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. TweakTown may also earn commissions from other affiliate partners at no extra cost to you. Xbox's new handheld will use AMD's AI chip technology to help supercharge the user experience, but exact details remain unclear. Today, Microsoft made history by announcing the first-ever Xbox handheld. ASUS is manufacturing a duo of Xbox handhelds--the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X--for release in 2025. The higher-end Ally X has AMD's AI Z2 Extreme chip, which leverages an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) for integrated AI capabilities. We're not exactly sure how Microsoft is using the AI features for the Xbox Ally X, but the company has made strides in its AI gaming efforts with its MUSE generative AI platform, which can render gameplay in real time, as well as Copilot for Gaming, a digital assistant for gamers. In a recent video published on the Xbox YouTube channel, key people from AMD, Xbox, and ASUS all discuss the Xbox Ally. Head of Xbox devices Roanne Sones had something interesting to say about AI on the new handhelds: "We have integrated in the power of AI experiences in ways that haven't even been imagined." What could this refer to? A better Copilot for Gaming? Some sort of new tool for better user customization? Or is AI being used for most things, including the new optimized Xbox experience--which is a conjunction of content, services, UI and UX adjustments befit of an actual Xbox console. Below we have a string of quotes that give us a better idea of what to expect from the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X in terms of functionality, performance, and AI integration. "That means for the player it's easier to enjoy, easier to enjoy, and having help--AI is a companion for players," ASUS Shawn Yen said. "Think of all the use cases that would blend AI based audio, AI-based gaming assisting functions, AI-based rendering capabilities," said AMD exec Sebastien Nussbaum. "The Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme is the absolute best in terms of handheld processors that you can have today," ASUS senior product manager Gabriel Meng said. "The industry-leading AI engine in your handheld device...inconceivable even three years ago," said AMD's SVP of computing and graphics Jack Huynh. The ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X will be available in holiday 2025. No pricing or exact availability have announced. For more info, check the spec sheet here.

Xbox Ally's new 'Xbox experience' custom Windows 11 gaming OS coming to other handhelds in 2026

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. TweakTown may also earn commissions from other affiliate partners at no extra cost to you. Microsoft has made a new special version of Windows 11 specifically tailor-made for PC gaming handhelds, and Microsoft has plans to release this new OS to other handheld devices starting next year. Yesterday, Microsoft announced the first-ever Xbox handheld duo. The one-two handheld combo consists of the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and the systems are being made by ASUS as part of the ROG lineup of enthusiast gaming hardware, with specifications to match--the Ally X sports AMD's new AI-powered Z2 AI Extreme chip and 24GB of RAM, which is a hefty 8GB over the Xbox Series X. The real secret sauce of the Xbox handheld isn't the hardware or the specs, though; it's the operating system that runs everything underneath the hood. The Xbox Ally handheld duo runs a new optimized version of Windows 11 that's been heavily tweaked for gaming, including major convenience options, UI overhauls, and performance adjustments. This new Windows 11 gaming environment is called the "Xbox experience," and it's a customized version of the PC operating system. Microsoft actually turned off many core functions of Windows in order to rev up gaming performance on the Xbox Ally handhelds. Microsoft has now confirmed that it has plans to release the custom Windows 11 version, dubbed the "full screen Xbox experience," to other handhelds starting in 2026. "The Xbox full screen experience will come first to Ally and Ally X, and we will update the in market ROG Ally and Ally X. Similar full screen Xbox experiences will be rolling out to other Windows handhelds beginning next year," a Microsoft spokesperson tells Game File's Stephen Totilo. Microsoft says that it deliberately focused on bringing the console experience to a handheld with the Xbox Ally, and this new custom Windows version is a big part of that effort. This is an interesting development for Microsoft, but not entirely surprising. After all, Microsoft is a service-first company that licenses out the world's largest PC operating system, so it makes sense that the company could also license out a new handheld-friendly version of Windows as well. Check below for more info about the Xbox experience on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X: When you power on your Xbox Ally, you'll boot directly into the Xbox full screen experience, a new feature optimized specifically for handheld gaming. With new modifications that minimize background activity and defer non-essential tasks, more system resources are dedicated specifically to gameplay. That means more memory, higher framerates, and a fully immersive experience for players-all made possible by the versatility and freedom of Windows. The Xbox Ally has more familiar Xbox touches, including:

ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X Handhelds Unveiled at Xbox Games Showcase

They offer an Xbox UI with an upgraded Game Bar and Game Copilot support Microsoft on Sunday announced two new handheld gaming PCs at Xbox Games Showcase. Developed in collaboration with Asus, the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X become the first Xbox-branded handheld devices from the company. Built for gaming on-the-go, the former is powered by a Ryzen Z2 A processor while the latter has the more powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset. Both models sport 7-inch 120Hz LCD screens and come with a new grip design that resembles an Xbox Wireless Controller. Microsoft says its new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X gaming handheld PCs will be available for purchase in Australia, France, Japan, Singapore, the UK, the US, and 21 other markets at launch during this holiday season. The handhelds will be made available in other markets where ROG Ally series products are sold later, which suggests the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X will launch in India at some point. The Xbox parent will reveal more details about the pricing, compatible accessories, and pre-orders in the coming months. As per the Redmond-based tech giant, both ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X sport 7-inch full HD LCD screens with a 120Hz refresh rate and 500nits peak brightness level. Asus has equipped the panels with Freesync Premium technology for reduced screen tearing and they come with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection and a DXC Anti-Reflection coating on top. Gamers can access their library across multiple PC storefronts, says Microsoft Photo Credit: Microsoft While the front-fascia and the button layout of the handheld gaming PCs remain similar to their standard counterparts from Asus, they feature new contoured grips to accommodate a wider range of hand sizes. There's also a new Xbox button that gives players quick access to chat, apps, and settings through an enhanced Game Bar overlay. Both models feature similar button configurations but the Xbox Ally has hall effect triggers while the Xbox Ally X gets upgraded impulse triggers. Microsoft says the ROG Xbox Ally is designed to provide great value for casual gamers and thus is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor with 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 512GB of onboard SSD storage. Meanwhile, the ROG Xbox Ally X targets hardcore gamers with top-of-the-line specs. It carries an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chipset under the hood with an upgraded 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and double the storage offered by the standard ROG Xbox Ally model. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handhelds come with the same display Photo Credit: Microsoft The handheld gaming PCs are said to come with an Xbox full screen experience which is designed for handheld gaming. Microsoft has made tweaks to Windows 11 which minimise the background activities and defer non-essential tasks. This is claimed to free up more system resources specifically for the gameplay, potentially resulting in higher frame rates and better performance. The ROG Xbox Ally series devices also come with an upgraded Game Bar which integrates Asus's Armoury Crate, giving quick access to input controls and advanced device options, in addition to existing home, library, launch games, and chat options. Players also get access to an aggregated gaming library which lists their games from Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other PC storefronts. Microsoft is partnering with Roblox for the launch of its new handheld gaming PCs and it will be natively optimised and playable on the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X models on day one. Further, it is also collaborating with game developer partners on a new programme which is designed to help identify the games optimised for handheld devices. Meanwhile, the AI-powered Gaming Copilot can be accessed through the Game Bar, serving as a personalised companion to launch games faster, learn new skills, and connect with communities. As per the tech giant, the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X are equipped with a 60Wh and an 80Wh battery, respectively. Both models ship with a 67W charging stand.

Everything we know about the Asus ROG Xbox Ally

The long-rumored Xbox handheld is finally official, and it turns out it is indeed a collaboration between Asus and Microsoft. Dubbed the ROG Xbox Ally, the new device is less of a console and more of a portable PC, boasting beefy specs and optimization for Windows 11 that will benefit playing on the go. Announced during Summer Game Fest 2025, the new Xbox handheld actually comes in two flavors. Not unlike the Series X and S, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X will serve as a higher-spec flagship with a black getup, whereas the vanilla ROG Xbox Ally offers up slightly dialled back performance and a white shell to match. Both of the new Xbox devices will rival the best gaming handhelds out there, and while they're a different kettle of technical fish, the upcoming portable PCs will no doubt lure some players away from Nintendo's new console. Plus, thanks to software, the emergence of these contenders could actually help the original Asus ROG Ally and Windows 11 options across the board take on the Steam Deck OLED in a big way. Microsoft hasn't shared a solid ROG Xbox Ally launch date yet, but both versions of the Asus device are set to launch later in 2025. Since we're halfway through the year, it's not unreasonable to assume the handheld might arrive just in time for the Holidays, as this is typically when new consoles tend to show up. It's also worth noting that the Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One both released in November. While Microsoft might not necessarily stick to console launch traditions, it feels extremely likely that the ROG Xbox Ally will show up in November 2025. Pricing for the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds isn't available yet, so you'll need to wait a little longer to see if it will fit your budget. That said, it is possible to hazard somewhat of a guess at a price range based on devices on the market right now and Microsoft's own hardware MSRP trends. The ROG Xbox Ally X is set to be the most expensive version of the handheld, and partially mirrors the specs of last year's Asus ROG Ally X. That could mean it'll also end up paired with the same $899.99 / £799.99 price tag, but since it also boasts a newer Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme APU, there's every chance it'll cost even more. On the flipside, the white ROG Xbox Ally is pretty similar to the 2023 Asus ROG Ally, boasting nearly identical specs in terms of memory and storage. However, unlike the X version, this model wields a Ryzen Z2 A chipset that is, on paper, less powerful than the original's Z1 Extreme. That could be a decision designed to keep costs down, ultimately allowing Asus to release a handheld for less than the Asus ROG Ally Z1E's $649.99 / £599.99 MSRP. In turn, the pricing would help position the handheld alongside the Steam Deck and similar rivals like the Lenovo Legion Go S, especially since the latter is pretty similar under the hood. Outside of handheld price trends, Microsoft might also influence MSRPs with its own typical console tier system. If that's the case, the ROG Xbox Ally may place a similar gap between models to the Series X and S. Ideally, that'd also mean the Ally will cost $379.99 / £299.99 while the X will sell for $599.99 / £589.99, but that's perhaps a bit of a pipe dream. As you'd expect, the ROG Xbox Ally range takes to the stage with specs worth talking about, for better or for worse. The Ally X leads the charge with a brand new AMD Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme APU, 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, a full-size 1TB M.2 SSD, and an 80Wh battery. Sounds familiar? That's because it's essentially a souped-up ROG Ally X that adds a new APU into the mix for a performance punch. The white Xbox Ally follows suit and matches Asus' first handheld with 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and a 512GB SSD, but swaps out the Ryzen Z1 Extreme for a new Ryzen Z2 A chip. According to AMD, this APU serves as an entry-level RDNA 2 option that ranks under the Legion Go S exclusive Ryzen Z2 GO and features fewer cores than the top Z1. On paper, that means that the white Xbox Ally should hit lower frame rates than the 2023 ROG Ally, potentially matching the Steam Deck, whereas the Xbox Ally X will likely outpace the original using RDNA 3. Naturally, I'll be looking to benchmark both handhelds in-house to see how far they can boost fps, but it'll ultimately be the X model that has a better chance of outperforming rivals. On the visual side of things, both models feature a 120Hz 1080p IPS display that looks virtually identical to the Asus ROG Ally's screen. The Xbox Ally does use the same Gorilla Glass coating as the Ally X, though, meaning it's going to be much tougher than most portable PC panels out there. If you caught the original teaser for the ROG Xbox Ally, you'll already know elevated controls are set to be a selling point. Both handhelds are set to feature gamepad elements not too dissimilar to the ROG Raikiri Pro, and that includes prominent grips that make for a huge design change compared to Asus' other handhelds. Under the hood, you're getting premium perks like hall-effect thumbsticks, HD haptics, and six-axis motion. Yet, it's arguably the simple addition of a dedicated Xbox button that'll make all the difference with these handhelds, as it both adds distinct console-like functionality and helps the portables tie in with Microsoft's design language. Sadly, the face buttons are more Asus-branded than Xbox, so you won't end up with something that looks like a portable Series X/S. Boo. Since the ROG Xbox Ally duo are Windows 11 handhelds, both are set to inherit wide compatibility with PC games and storefronts. Normally, that comes with the caveat of wrestling with an operating system that's not optimized for portable play, but Microsoft is including an immersive Xbox full-screen experience that places GameBar front and centre. Essentially, when you turn on the handheld, you'll launch straight into Xbox GameBar rather than a Windows 11 desktop. Once there, you'll be able to access a bunch of installed games, services like Game Pass, and apps like Battle.net and Steam in a console-like fashion. You'll also be able to tweak system settings thanks to Armoury Crate integration - something that'll make messing with performance options and controller mapping slicker.

I think we've finally got the full Xbox handheld we've been waiting for | Stuff

Microsoft has been working with Asus on the project, no stranger to handhelds itself with its ROG Ally line At its Xbox Showcase Microsoft finally revealed an Xbox handheld console as has been long rumoured. It turns out that it's been working with Asus on the project, no stranger to handhelds itself with its ROG Ally line. The new handheld comes hot on the heels of the Nintendo Switch 2 and is clearly more Asus than Microsoft on the hardware side. It's even branded ROG Xbox Ally to place it alongside the other Asus handheld devices rather than seeming an outlier product. The device will be available in time for the holidays - I'd expect an October launch. A price hasn't yet been shared and I woiuldn't expect this until much closer to the launch date. Microostf says there will also be compatible accessories coming as well and there will be a pre-order which you can register interest for. There are two versions of the 7in handheld, too - a white ROG Xbox Ally model designed for HD 720p and a black ROG Xbox Ally X model that has more powerful specs and is capable of Full HD 1080p. Both boast a 120Hz variable refresh rate (VRR). Both use a new full-screen Xbox interface that's based on Windows - but you wouldn't know it as it appears that Microsoft has tried to ensure the complexities of Windows are kept in the background. That's easier said than done and we've seen some frustrating clunkiness on previous Microsoft tablet and phone devices based on Windows. Let's hope it does a better job this time around. Naturally you will be able to download games from various stores and you can also play natively, via the Xbox Cloud Gaming or remotely from your main Xbox console in another room. Microsoft says the Xbox Ally is designed for more casual gamers, while the Ally X is "the ultimate high-performance handheld, built for the most demanding players." Both handhelds run on AMD hardware, with the Xbox Ally being powered by the Ryzen Z2 A Processor teamed with 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage. The Xbox Ally X has the beefier Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme plus 24GB of memory for more demanding games. The Xbox Ally X also features impulse triggers, too. So what's un the software? It's called Xbox Experience for Handheld and as I mentioned, it has a full screen Xbox interface. It is very much Windows in the background but Microsoft says that "new modifications minimize background activity and defer non-essential tasks, more system resources are dedicated specifically to gameplay." The Game Bar is the key element of the interface, making it "easy to return home, browse your library, launch or quit games, chat with friends, open apps, adjust settings, and more." Gaming Copilot will also be a virtual assistant on the platform. Windows does mean you can access other apps, too, with access to whatever store you want, apps like Discord and Twitch as well as access to Asus Armoury Crate for in-depth configuration options. Downloads from various stores are aggregated together in your library and you can naturally access stacks of games from Game Pass. There are several 'Xbox touches' on the consoles too including contoured grips, accessibility features and naturally the Xbox button. At launch Microsoft says the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X will be available in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with availability to follow for other markets where ROG Ally series products are sold today.

Xbox handheld console is here. Meet the Xbox Ally's

Microsoft is launching two handheld gaming devices, the Xbox Ally and the more powerful Xbox Ally X, equipped with AMD's AI Z2 Extreme processor. The Ally X mirrors the Asus ROG Ally X specs, featuring a 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate.Microsoft has unveiled two versions of its new handheld gaming device: the Xbox Ally and the more powerful Xbox Ally X. The Ally X is equipped with AMD's latest handheld processor, the AI Z2 Extreme, which features a built-in NPU delivering 50 TOPs of AI performance essentially turning it into a Copilot+ laptop in handheld form. Meanwhile, the standard Ally uses the less powerful Z2 A chip. The Xbox Ally X arrives just in time for Microsoft to integrate Copilot into the Xbox App. It also mirrors the specs of the Asus ROG Ally X, released in July 2024, boasting a 1080p display, 120Hz refresh rate, and VRR support via Freesync Premium. While it's unclear if the screen is identical, it promises a stunning visual experience regardless. Microsoft has also optimized the software experience for the Xbox Ally X, tailoring it specifically for handheld use. When it launches later this year, the device will boot directly into a newly redesigned, handheld-friendly version of the Xbox App. This updated interface will act as a unified launch hub, seamlessly integrating your PC game libraries including Steam, Epic Games, and more into one place. While an official release date hasn't been announced, Microsoft has indicated that both the Xbox Ally X and the standard Ally are expected to debut during the holiday season. Pricing details have yet to be revealed.