Microsoft and ASUS have announced a new collaboration aimed at making Xbox gaming portable, today unveiling the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X – two handheld devices set to launch during the 2025 holiday season in select markets, with broader availability to follow.
The partnership between the two companies seeks to unite the technical strengths of Xbox and ASUS, integrating the console ecosystem with the flexibility of Windows 11. Both handhelds are designed to support gaming across a wide range of storefronts, including Xbox, Battle.net, and other PC platforms. Microsoft explained the motivation behind the development, saying that everything at Xbox begins with player experience. They have pitched that the years of investment in services such as Xbox Play Anywhere, Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta), and Remote Play have laid the groundwork for more accessible gaming across different devices.
The ROG Xbox Ally is described as an essential option offering value for casual and dedicated players alike, while the ROG Xbox Ally X is targeted at enthusiasts seeking top-tier handheld performance. Both models support native gaming, cloud streaming, and console remote play.
A major feature of the devices is the new Xbox full screen experience, tailored specifically for handhelds. Players will boot directly into a simplified and performance-optimised interface that includes a centralised library featuring installed titles from Xbox, Battle.net, and more. This environment also allows access to apps like Discord and Twitch, plus compatibility with game mods.
Microsoft has also redesigned core Windows 11 elements to better suit handheld use. This includes modifications to the Game Bar, which now integrates ASUS’s Armoury Crate for advanced device settings, and adjustments to features such as the lock screen and task switcher to ensure smooth controller navigation.
The handhelds incorporate a dedicated Xbox button, contoured grips modelled on the Xbox Wireless Controller, and a selection of accessibility features derived from both Windows and the Xbox ecosystem. Microsoft also confirmed a collaboration with Roblox to ensure the platform runs natively and is optimised for handheld play from launch.
As part of a broader initiative, Microsoft is developing a program to help players identify titles optimised for handhelds such as the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X. In addition, new users will be offered complimentary access to Game Pass, providing hundreds of games from day one.
The ROG Xbox Ally comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. The ROG Xbox Ally X upgrades the experience with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, along with impulse triggers for more immersive gameplay.
Both devices feature a 7-inch FHD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium support. Connectivity options include USB-C ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a UHS-II microSD card reader. Battery capacity varies between 60Wh for the Ally and 80Wh for the Ally X.
At launch, the handhelds will be available in Australia, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and over 20 other countries. Further details regarding pricing, compatible accessories, and pre-orders are expected in the coming months.
