Microsoft unveils ROG Xbox Ally handheld video game devices

Microsoft has officially entered the handheld gaming market, announcing its first-ever Xbox-branded portable devices on Sunday. Dubbed the "ROG Xbox Ally" and developed in collaboration with Taiwanese tech giant ASUS, the two models are set to launch by the 2025 holiday season.

Unveiled during an online showcase featuring upcoming Xbox games, Xbox president Sarah Bond described the new device as a game-changer for portable gaming. “The Xbox Ally is an Xbox you can hold in your hands,” Bond said. “It brings together the power of Xbox and the freedom of Windows.”

The Xbox Ally allows users to access a wide range of titles from the Xbox ecosystem, as well as Windows-based gaming platforms including Steam, Battle.net, GOG (Good Old Games), and Ubisoft Connect. According to Bond, players will be able to access their entire game libraries from multiple storefronts directly on the device, giving the Ally a distinct edge in terms of versatility.

This announcement comes just days after Nintendo’s release of the highly anticipated Switch 2, an upgraded version of its blockbuster handheld console. The new Switch, with a larger screen and enhanced processing capabilities, is expected to enjoy record early sales. Microsoft’s Xbox Ally appears to be a direct response, targeting a growing market of gamers who prioritize mobility without compromising on performance or game variety.

Visually, the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X resemble traditional Xbox controllers, complete with familiar buttons, thumbsticks, and ergonomic grips. However, they are slightly elongated to accommodate built-in high-resolution displays. Microsoft confirmed that the devices would feature a newly optimized full-screen Xbox interface tailored specifically for handheld play.

“When you power on your Xbox Ally, you'll boot directly into the Xbox full-screen experience — a new feature built for portable gaming,” the company explained in a press release. “These devices are perfect for players who want a convenient, immersive experience on the go — whether you're at the airport or relaxing in the living room.”

While pricing and release date details are still under wraps, Microsoft promised more information in the coming months. With its move into handheld gaming, the company is positioning Xbox to compete directly with Nintendo and emerging handheld PCs, potentially reshaping the portable gaming landscape.