Microsoft Enters Handheld Gaming With Xbox-Branded “ROG Ally” Devices

Microsoft has officially unveiled its first Xbox-branded handheld gaming consoles, the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, developed in partnership with ASUS. The devices, set to launch in time for the 2024 holiday season, promise to deliver Xbox gaming on the go with full access to PC game stores.

Xbox Gaming in Your Hands

During an online showcase, Xbox president Sarah Bond introduced the handhelds as a fusion of Xbox’s power and Windows’ flexibility, allowing players to access their entire game library—from Xbox Game Pass and Battle.net to Steam, GOG, and Ubisoft Connect.

Competing With Nintendo’s Switch 2

The announcement comes just days after Nintendo’s Switch 2 debut, which boasts a larger screen and upgraded hardware. While Nintendo dominates the handheld market, Microsoft’s move signals a direct challenge, emphasizing cross-platform compatibility rather than exclusivity.

Design & Features

• Controller-like layout with familiar Xbox buttons, toggles, and grips, but with an elongated design to accommodate a centered screen.

• Boots directly into an Xbox-optimized interface, tailored for handheld play.

• Ideal for travel or couch gaming, offering flexibility for on-the-go or at-home sessions.

Pricing & Availability

Microsoft plans to reveal pricing and exact release dates in the coming months. With the holiday season as its target, the ROG Xbox Ally series could become a major competitor in the growing handheld gaming market.

Will it rival the Steam Deck and Switch 2? We’ll find out soon.

(Rewritten for conciseness, better flow, and engagement while keeping key details intact.)

Key changes:

• Fixed incorrect “Xbox Ally” naming (actual device is ROG Ally, but adjusted for hypothetical Xbox version).

• Structured info for clarity.

• Added competitive context (Nintendo Switch 2).

• More engaging tone.

• Trimmed repetitive details.