Xbox has officially introduced its inaugural handheld gaming console, developed in partnership with ASUS, culminating years of speculation and anticipation. This exciting announcement took place during the recent Xbox Games Showcase.
The new handheld series includes two models: the standard ROG Xbox Ally and the upgraded ROG Xbox Ally X. The base model is designed to run all the latest Xbox games, equipped with a state-of-the-art AMD processor, while the X version boasts enhanced specifications and increased storage capacity, reflecting its premium status.
Key specifications for the standard ROG Xbox Ally include:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 A Extreme
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X-6400
- Storage: 512GB
- Display: 7” IPS touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Weight & Dimensions: 670g / 29.08 x 12.15 x 5.07 cm
- Battery: 60Wh
In comparison, the ROG Xbox Ally X features:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme
- RAM: 24GB LPDDR5X-8000
- Storage: 1TB
- Display: 7” IPS touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Weight & Dimensions: 715g / 29.08 x 12.15 x 5.07 cm
- Battery: 80Wh
The handheld consoles are poised to rival existing devices like the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and Legion Go. Users familiar with ROG Ally devices should expect a comparable experience, as Xbox aims to allow players to boot directly into its user interface while also offering support for Steam and access to its game library.
While pricing has not yet been disclosed, the current generation of ROG handhelds is priced around $1,599, which could be a barrier for consumers if the new devices are similarly priced. However, if the Xbox handheld aligns more closely with the Steam Deck’s pricing, it could emerge as a formidable competitor in the market.
An official release date hasn’t been confirmed, but expectations suggest a launch before Christmas this year.
In addition to the handheld console, Xbox showcased a variety of new games slated for release on Xbox consoles and PC, including titles like Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy, Clockwork Revolution, and Keeper. Furthermore, updates for popular games such as The Elder Scrolls Online and Fallout 76 were also revealed during the event.