The Rumored Xbox Handheld: A New Challenger Enters the Arena
The world of handheld gaming is buzzing with speculation, as reports suggest that an Xbox handheld device is indeed in development. This comes alongside leaks hinting at the imminent arrival of the Asus ROG Ally 2, the successor to the popular ROG Ally released in 2023. These developments point towards a potentially significant shift in the handheld market, with established players like Steam Deck facing new competition from both Microsoft and Asus.
Leaked images surfacing from government certification websites have provided glimpses into what is believed to be the upcoming ROG Ally 2. These images suggest a departure from the Steam Deck’s more boxy design, opting instead for a more ergonomic approach with contoured grips, reminiscent of traditional console controllers. This design choice could prove to be a key differentiator, potentially offering a more comfortable and familiar gaming experience for many users.
The speculation surrounding the Xbox handheld is further fueled by the appearance of a dedicated Xbox button on one of the leaked ROG Ally 2 models. This strongly suggests a collaboration between Asus and Microsoft, with the device likely running Windows and providing seamless access to the Xbox ecosystem. Such integration could be a game-changer, granting access to Xbox Game Pass and a vast library of games on the go.
Evidence of the ROG Ally 2’s existence has also been uncovered through entries at Indonesia’s certification office and Wi-Fi module listings from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission. These filings suggest that an official announcement may be imminent, with potential unveiling at the Computex computing conference in Taipei, Taiwan. This timeline further excites the handheld gaming community, which is eagerly awaiting confirmation and further details about these devices.
The leaked specifications and images hint at two distinct models of the ROG Ally 2. Both versions are expected to feature a dedicated button to the left of the traditional switch for Asus’ Armoury Crate software. Intriguingly, the black model includes an outline for the Xbox logo, solidifying the rumors of an Xbox button and the potential for close integration with the Microsoft ecosystem. The purpose of this button could range from providing quick access to the Xbox app to enabling other functionalities specific to the Windows-based model.
Regarding hardware, the ROG Ally 2 is expected to be a powerhouse among handhelds. It is rumored to feature a 7-inch, 120Hz LCD display, promising smooth and vibrant visuals. Under the hood, the device may be powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, which was first announced alongside the Lenovo Legion Go 2. This chip boasts an 8-core processor with a maximum thermal design power (TDP) of 36W, allowing it to draw more power from the battery to deliver enhanced in-game performance.
The black Xbox version of the ROG Ally 2 may even surpass the standard model in terms of processing power. In contrast, the less powerful Ally 2 variant may feature a 4-core processor with a 20W TDP, bringing it closer in performance to the Steam Deck. There is speculation that the less powerful variant may be closer in performance to the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go, based on the chipmaker’s Zen 3 architecture, that is found in the Legion Go S. Moreover, the top-end Ally 2 is rumored to have up to 64GB of RAM and up to 2TB of storage, providing ample memory and space for games and applications.
One of the most noteworthy aspects of the new design is the inclusion of molded grips on either end of the device. This design choice sets it apart from the more rectangular Steam Deck and the original ROG Ally, drawing comparisons to the familiar feel of the Xbox controller. While some may find the design unusual, the contoured grips could offer a more comfortable and ergonomic gaming experience, particularly during extended play sessions.
The success of console controllers with similar designs speaks volumes about their ergonomic benefits. The PlayStation Portal, with its DualSense controller-inspired design, also demonstrates the appeal of a familiar controller feel in a handheld format. The main concern surrounding the ROG Ally 2’s grips lies in the potential for sharp corners where the grips meet the device’s main body, which could cause discomfort for some users.
The comfort factor of handheld devices is often a key determinant of their success. The 8-inch Legion Go S, with its larger grips, is considered one of the most comfortable handhelds on the market. However, the device suffered from lower performance despite its relatively high price tag. The ROG Ally 2 aims to strike a better balance between comfort and performance.
The ROG Ally 2 is rumored to have two USB-C ports on the top of the device, a departure from the original ROG Ally which had one on top and one on bottom. The new handhelds should also have two back buttons, just like the original ROG Ally.
The Asus ROG Ally X, with its larger amount of RAM and an 80Wh battery, has already made a name for itself as a strong contender in the PC handheld space. The new AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU has shown promise in initial tests, but its true potential remains to be seen. Competition is fierce, with the Intel Lunar Lake-powered MSI Claw 8 AI+ currently outperforming the Ally’s Z1 Extreme chip in raw performance. However, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ also comes with a higher price tag and limited availability.
With prices rising across the board, it is unlikely that the ROG Ally 2 will be an affordable device. However, if the rumors hold true, its combination of powerful hardware, ergonomic design, and potential Xbox integration could make it a formidable competitor in the handheld gaming market. The coming months promise to be an exciting time for handheld enthusiasts as more details about the ROG Ally 2 and the rumored Xbox handheld emerge. The introduction of new players and innovative designs could reshape the landscape of mobile gaming, providing gamers with more options and enhanced experiences.
