Microsoft Xbox Enters the Handheld Market with the ROG Xbox Ally

Microsoft has finally unveiled its first Xbox-branded handheld gaming device, the ROG Xbox Ally, marking a bold step into the portable gaming market. Developed in collaboration with ASUS, this new handheld aims to deliver a premium gaming experience on the go, blending the power of Xbox with the flexibility of PC gaming.

But what makes the ROG Xbox Ally stand out? Let’s dive into the details.

The ROG Xbox Ally is designed to give players access to their digital Xbox library, including Game Pass titles via cloud gaming. Unlike traditional consoles, this device runs on a custom Xbox app interface, making it feel like a dedicated Xbox experience rather than just another handheld PC.

Microsoft has introduced *two versions of the device:

ROG Xbox Ally . The standard model with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

ROG Xbox Ally X , a more powerful variant featuring 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, optimized for 1080p gaming.

Both models feature a 7-inch, 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth gameplay. The contoured hand grips and impulse triggers mimic the feel of an Xbox controller, making it a familiar experience for console players.

At its core, the ROG Xbox Ally is powered by AMD Ryzen processors, offering impressive performance for a handheld device. The entry-level model runs on the Ryzen 2A, while the Ally X boasts the **Ryzen Z2 Extreme**, delivering **high-end gaming capabilities**.

Unlike previous handheld consoles, this device is not locked to Xbox games. Since it runs on a Windows-based system, players can install and play games from Stam, Epic Games, GOG, and other storefronts. This makes it a versatile gaming machine, appealing to both Xbox loyalists and PC gamers.

Battery life is another key focus. The ROG Xbox Ally X features a larger battery, promising extended play sessions compared to its standard counterpart.

Microsoft’s approach with the ROG Xbox Ally is low-risk yet strategic. Instead of developing a first-party handheld from scratch, they’ve partnered with ASUS, leveraging existing ROG Ally hardware and refining it with Xbox-specific features.

This move allows Microsoft to test the handheld market without committing to a full-fledged console. Given the success of Valve’s Steam Deck, it’s clear that portable gaming PCs are gaining traction. By integrating Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming, Microsoft is positioning itself as a major player in this space.

However, there’s been conflicting reports about Microsoft’s long-term handheld plans. Some sources claim that a first-party Xbox handheld was in development but has since been cancelled in favour of improving Windows gaming performance. Others suggest that Microsoft still aspires to create a dedicated Xbox handheld in the future.

The ROG Xbox Ally is shaping up to be a powerful and flexible handheld, offering native Xbox gaming, cloud streaming, and full PC compatibility. While it’s not a true Xbox console, it provides a compelling alternative** for players who want **portable access to their Xbox library.

With a holiday 2025 release planned, pricing details are still unclear. However, given the existing ROG Ally models, we can expect the entry-level version to cost around £449, while the premium Ally X could be priced closer to £799.

Will this be the next big thing in handheld gaming? Time will tell. But one thing is certain Microsoft is serious about expanding Xbox beyond traditional consoles.

Now where my wallet?