In an exciting development for gaming enthusiasts, Microsoft and Asus have unveiled two innovative ROG Xbox Ally handheld devices. These devices aim to deliver a new full-screen Xbox experience tailored specifically for handheld gaming. Earlier this year, Microsoft pledged to merge “the best of Xbox and Windows together” to enhance the handheld gaming experience, and now they are revealing significant updates to the Xbox app, Game Bar, and Windows platform. This move is a strategic response to the growing popularity of SteamOS, especially following the launch of the Steam Deck three years ago.
Microsoft has been continuously refining its Xbox app and the Xbox Game Bar on Windows to create a more handheld-friendly environment. However, a more comprehensive overhaul of Windows was necessary to fully support this vision. The recent announcements signify the beginning of this transformation, focusing on streamlining gaming functionalities while minimizing Windows' complexity. This strategic enhancement is aimed at positioning Microsoft as a formidable competitor against SteamOS.
The collaboration between Microsoft and Asus over the past year has resulted in two new ROG Xbox Ally handheld devices, which are part of the Project Kennan initiative. Both devices feature a newly designed full-screen Xbox experience on Windows, crafted to be more handheld-friendly. This design aims to enhance the gaming experience by simplifying navigation and prioritizing gaming over general computing tasks.
The two new models include the white ROG Xbox Ally, optimized for 720p gaming, and the more powerful black ROG Xbox Ally X, which aims to deliver gaming experiences at resolutions ranging from 900p to 1080p. Both devices are equipped with a 7-inch 1080p screen that boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and supports variable refresh rate (VRR), ensuring smooth gameplay and vibrant graphics. This enhanced hardware positions the ROG Xbox Ally devices as strong contenders in the handheld gaming market.
This summer promises to be bustling with gaming news, as Microsoft has officially announced its next Xbox Games Showcase livestream. Scheduled for June 8th at 1 PM ET, this event will feature a preview of upcoming titles from Microsoft’s first-party studios, alongside exciting new releases from third-party partners worldwide. Following the showcase, a second stream will highlight The Outer Worlds 2, which is anticipated to launch later this year.
Last year’s showcase revealed major titles such as Perfect Dark, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Starfield. This year, in addition to the sequel of The Outer Worlds, fans can expect updates on the next installment of Call of Duty and other holiday gaming releases. However, details regarding Fable may be sparse, as its release has been postponed to 2026. Furthermore, with Doom: The Dark Ages set to launch in May, it’s likely that the showcase will include insights into future updates or expansions for this highly anticipated dark fantasy shooter.
Stay tuned for more updates as Microsoft and Asus continue to innovate in the handheld gaming space, and mark your calendars for the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase to catch the latest developments in gaming!
