Microsoft teams up with Asus to unveil the first-ever handheld Xbox devices, the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. Discover what makes these portable consoles a big step in gaming innovation.
For the first time ever, Microsoft is bringing the full Xbox experience to a handheld device. In collaboration with Asus, the tech giant has announced the launch of its first Xbox-branded portable consoles: the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. These two models mark a major shift in Xbox’s strategy, moving beyond the living room and into the hands of gamers on the go.
Unveiled by Xbox president Sarah Bond, the ROG Xbox Ally lineup is designed to bring the freedom and versatility of PC gaming into a more compact, accessible format. It’s a vision that has been teased for years, especially by Xbox head Phil Spencer, who has long hinted at the possibility of a portable Xbox. With this launch, that vision is now a reality.
Set to release during the 2025 holiday season in select markets, the Xbox Ally series offers two distinct experiences. The base model, simply called the Xbox Ally, is targeted at casual gamers who want a lightweight, affordable device that delivers solid performance. It features an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. Microsoft says this version is optimized for balanced power and performance, making it perfect for on-the-go gaming without draining the battery too quickly. At just 670 grams, it also keeps things comfortable for extended play sessions.
For those who want more power, the Xbox Ally X steps things up. It comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, a hefty 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage. Microsoft has designed this version for players who want to push their games to the highest visual settings while still keeping everything portable. It also includes impulse triggers, which enhance feedback and immersion, and weighs slightly more at 715 grams. According to Microsoft, this high-end version is also ready to handle new AI features as they roll out.
Both devices run an optimized version of Windows 11, giving users the flexibility of a PC but with a customized Xbox-first experience. When powered on, the console boots directly into a full-screen Xbox interface tailored for handheld use. Background processes are minimized, ensuring that most system resources go straight into gameplay, allowing for higher framerates and smoother performance.
The 7-inch 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate is consistent across both models, offering crisp visuals and fluid motion. Accessibility features from both Xbox consoles and Windows PCs are built in, and the design of the buttons and layout is based on the trusted feel of the Xbox Wireless Controller.
One of the standout features is the ability to quickly access an aggregated game library across Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other PC platforms. Microsoft is also working with developers on a new program that will identify titles optimized for handheld gaming. To sweeten the deal, new Xbox Ally and Ally X owners who are new to Game Pass will get a subscription to the service at no additional cost, giving instant access to hundreds of titles.
Connectivity is also well covered. The Xbox Ally includes two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports and a microSD card reader, making it easy to expand storage or connect accessories.
While Microsoft has yet to reveal the pricing for either device, the company has confirmed that more information about pre-orders, accessories, and official pricing will be shared soon.
With the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, Microsoft is not just releasing new hardware, it’s entering a new category of gaming. These handhelds aim to blend the best of Xbox, Windows, and mobile gaming into a single, streamlined experience. Whether you’re a casual player or a power user, the Xbox Ally line is shaping up to be one of the most exciting tech releases of 2025.
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