ASUS and Microsoft are stepping into the handheld arena with serious intent this holiday season, revealing the ROG Xbox Ally series-two Windows 11-powered gaming handhelds designed to offer console-quality gameplay with PC freedom.
Formerly known as Project Kennan, the ROG Xbox Ally comes in two distinct variants, both tailored for gamers who want portability without compromising on performance. The base model features an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, aiming to strike the perfect balance between efficiency and power. Ideal for casual to mid-core gaming, it promises respectable framerates and good battery life, making it a strong contender for everyday gamers on the go.
Meanwhile, the premium ROG Xbox Ally X takes things a step further with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of high-speed RAM, and a spacious 1TB SSD. Designed for those who want a truly high-end portable gaming experience, this model is tailored to handle modern AAA titles at higher framerates and resolutions-offering visuals that rival desktop gaming rigs.
What sets these handhelds apart is the deep integration of Xbox’s ecosystem with the versatility of Windows 11. Unlike handhelds tied to proprietary OS systems, these devices offer full access to Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games Store, and more. One major reason for opting for standard Windows instead of a lighter, gaming-specific OS like SteamOS is hardware compatibility: the Ally’s RDNA 3.5-based GPU architecture isn’t compatible with the streamlined Xbox OS that runs on older RDNA2-based devices.
Both devices will support all titles showcased at the latest Xbox Games Showcase, including the long-awaited Hollow Knight: Silksong, which will be available at launch-adding even more weight to its arrival.
While ASUS hasn’t confirmed the exact release date, the ROG Xbox Ally is shaping up to be one of the most exciting portable gaming devices for late 2025. Whether you’re looking for a next-gen gaming experience in your backpack or just want to dive into your Game Pass library on the go, this new handheld duo could be a game-changer.
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