Keen-eyed readers might remember our previous coverage of the Xbox Ally updates. However, with the surge of news and discussions surrounding this handheld device this week, it merits a closer examination of what lies ahead. Xbox has unveiled a clearer roadmap outlining its plans for the Xbox Ally, emphasizing software updates and long-term support for this innovative gaming device.
The Xbox Ally and its upgraded version, the Xbox Ally X, are now available in 45 countries. Developed in collaboration with ASUS and powered by the AMD Z2 Extreme chip, the handheld console represents Xbox's serious venture into the realm of portable gaming. On paper, the concept is robust, allowing users to access their entire Xbox library, achievements, community features, and even Game Pass on the go. However, the device is not without its flaws. While some early reviews have praised the hardware, many users have noted that the overall user experience is somewhat lacking due to limitations associated with Windows.
At present, the Xbox Ally comes in two models: the standard version and the Xbox Ally X. Both models are designed to feel familiar in hand, drawing inspiration from the iconic Xbox controller. The standard model is equipped with AMD’s new Z2 A chip, providing a modest performance enhancement over the Steam Deck. Meanwhile, the Xbox Ally X steps up the game with the more powerful Z2 Extreme processor, designed to deliver superior performance for demanding gaming experiences.
One of the standout features of the Xbox Ally is the deep integration between Xbox and Windows. This collaboration introduces a new Full Screen Experience (FSE) that launches the device directly into the Xbox app, offering a console-like feel. Additionally, FSE disables unnecessary Windows background tasks, optimizing system resources—a feature that handheld Windows PC users have long requested and that may eventually be extended to other devices.
While the Xbox Ally cannot natively install your Xbox console library, it does support various PC storefronts, such as Steam and Epic Games. Moreover, it is compatible with Xbox Play Anywhere titles, allowing players to enjoy specific games they already own on Xbox without incurring additional costs. The inclusion of Xbox Cloud Gaming enables users to stream games through all tiers of Game Pass. If a game is not accessible via the cloud or PC, players can still utilize Xbox Remote Play to stream directly from their home console.
Although it’s still early days for the Xbox Ally, the groundwork is promising. Access to Game Pass on the go and the ability to tap into the Xbox ecosystem in handheld form is a dream for many gamers. However, the device does have its shortcomings. Early reviews have highlighted the hardware's strengths but have criticized aspects of the user experience, particularly the Full Screen Experience, which some reviewers have described as unfinished. Fortunately, Xbox has acknowledged these concerns and has shared a roadmap detailing upcoming enhancements.
Xbox Ally users can expect the following updates in the upcoming weeks and months:
Default Game Profiles Enhanced Docking Experience AI-powered Automatic Super Resolution AI Highlight ReelsWhile the list may not seem extensive at first glance, these updates will include general improvements to stability, usability, and performance—aiming to address many common complaints regarding the software experience.
The Default Game Profiles feature will automatically adjust settings on a per-game basis, helping to balance performance and battery life without requiring players to tweak settings each time they launch a game. The Enhanced Docking Experience aims to improve functionality when connected to a monitor or TV, ideally providing a more console-like experience. This could translate into better display scaling, smoother transitions between handheld and docked modes, and more consistent performance.
Among the most exciting updates is the Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) feature, which utilizes AI to enhance visual quality without significantly impacting performance. By leveraging the NPU instead of the CPU or GPU, Auto SR will upscale games that run at lower resolutions to look closer to 1080p or even 1440p, which is particularly beneficial for the Xbox Ally given its hardware constraints. Notably, this will mark the first appearance of Auto SR on a non-Qualcomm device, as it has previously only been available on the Snapdragon X platform.
Another anticipated feature is AI Highlight Reels, designed for content creators and gamers who love to share. This function aims to automatically identify and capture significant gameplay moments, reducing the need for manual recording.
The initial offerings for the Xbox Ally show potential, with a clear path for future enhancements. Xbox appears to be steering towards a PC-centric future, where the ecosystem may take precedence over hardware specifications. The idea of an aggregated gaming library across Steam, Epic, and Xbox on a console designed by Xbox is indeed exciting, particularly if the native Xbox console libraries become part of this vision.
However, the experience currently requires refinement. The Xbox Ally feels caught in a limbo between being a handheld PC and a true Xbox handheld, as reviews and user feedback consistently point out that Windows often complicates the experience. The initial setup process is cluttered with unnecessary apps like Microsoft Teams, and the updates to both the Xbox app and ASUS’s Armoury Crate software slow down the setup, detracting from the streamlined, console-like experience that players desire.
A device priced up to $1,000 should not feel like it’s still in beta. Microsoft could have mitigated much of this criticism by leveraging its Insider Program prior to launch. The silver lining is that Xbox is aware of the need for improvement and has confirmed that development is already underway. The roadmap signifies a step in the right direction, but it is crucial for Xbox to deliver on these promises. The coming months will reveal whether Xbox can transform the Ally from a compelling concept into a standout product. For a more in-depth analysis of the hardware, software experience, and performance, be sure to check out our full review.
