Microsoft and Asus have teamed up once again, and this time, it’s for a bold new step in portable gaming. Under the Project Kennan initiative, the two tech giants have introduced not one, but two handheld Xbox Ally devices that promise a seamless, full-screen Xbox-like gaming experience on the go.
Both handhelds are expected to launch during the 2025 holiday season and will mark a major leap for Windows-based gaming consoles.
Two Models, Two Power Levels
White Xbox Ally
Designed for casual to mid-range gamers, the White Xbox Ally features:
- 720p gaming performance
- AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor
- 16GB LPDDR5X RAM
- 512GB SSD
This model is perfect for those who want smooth gameplay with solid battery life in a sleek, portable design.
Black Xbox Ally X
For high-performance gamers, the Black Xbox Ally X packs a punch with:
- 900p to 1080p gaming
- AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor
- 24GB LPDDR5X RAM
- 1TB SSD storage
It’s built for those who want premium power, multitasking, and high-end visuals on the move.
Streamlined Xbox-Like Experience
Forget the hassle of the traditional Windows interface. Both Xbox Ally devices boot directly into the Xbox PC app, giving users instant access to:
- Xbox Game Pass
- Microsoft Store
- Steam, Epic Games, Battle.net, and more
The new Game Bar UI is optimized for handheld use and includes:
- Controller-based login
- Quick settings access
- Easy app switching
- Integration with tools like Discord
Display and Design
- Both devices feature a 7-inch 1080p screen
- 120Hz refresh rate with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
- Ergonomic Xbox-style grips for better hand comfort and control
- Compact yet premium build, made for portability
Enhanced Connectivity Options
Xbox Ally X:
- USB-C 4 with Thunderbolt 4 for external GPU support
- USB-C 3.2 and UHS-II microSD slot
Xbox Ally:
- Dual USB-C 3.2 ports for connecting peripherals like controllers or displays
Bigger Battery, Longer Gaming
- Xbox Ally: 60Wh battery (50% larger than the original ROG Ally)
- Xbox Ally X: 80Wh battery, the largest ever in a handheld gaming device
Enjoy longer sessions without needing a charger every few hours.
Docking & External GPU Support
Both handhelds are compatible with Asus’ XG Mobile dock, which comes equipped with an NVIDIA RTX 5090 laptop GPU. This allows users to switch from handheld to desktop-grade gaming instantly.
Launch Timeline
The Xbox Ally handhelds will be available during the 2025 holiday season. Microsoft and Asus are expected to share official pricing and preorder details soon.
Read More: Nothing Phone (3) Teased: New Design, Launch Set for July 1
Conclusion
The Microsoft-Asus collaboration has taken a big leap forward with the Xbox Ally handhelds. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore performance enthusiast, these devices offer a powerful, portable, and polished gaming experience like never before.
With console-quality gameplay in your hands, the Xbox Ally lineup could redefine portable gaming for years to come.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official announcements and leaks. Final product specifications and pricing may change at launch.
