Microsoft and Asus Unveils two Xbox Handheld Gaming Consoles
After extensive speculation, Microsoft has entered the gaming handheld market, launching ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X in collaboration with Asus. These devices aim to connect console and PC gaming by providing a portable experience while ensuring access to Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming, and native Windows support. The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X offer a range of features specifically designed for gamers. Let's outline some of the features and hardware of the handheld gaming console.
The base ROG Xbox Ally features 16GB RAM and 512GB of storage, while the ROG Ally X boasts 24GB RAM and 1TB of storage. The processors in these devices are powerful. The Xbox Ally has a Ryzen Z2 A chip, while the Xbox Ally X upgrades the chip to AMD's Ryzen AI extreme processor. When it comes to the battery, the Ally X features an 80Wh battery, while the base model Ally has a 60Wh battery.
On the display front, both models sport a 7-inch 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth gameplay.
The highlight of the devices is Windows integration. Unlike traditional consoles, the Alloy and Alloy X will run Windows 11, allowing users to install games from a bevy of storefronts, including Steam, EA, and Battle.net. Players can enjoy hundreds of titles via Xbox Game Pass with options for native play, cloud streaming, and remote console access.
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Microsoft's entry into the handheld market comes at a time when Nintendo's Switch 2 and Valve's Steam Deck currently dominate the consumer market. However, the ROG Xbox Ally sets itself apart with Xbox ecosystem integration, making it a compelling choice for gamers who want PC-level flexibility in a portable format.
With the holiday 2025 release, Microsoft is betting significantly on handheld gaming. The question is will it redefine the market? That remains to be seen.
