Xbox Goes Portable with ROG Xbox Ally
Microsoft is entering the handheld gaming scene. On Sunday, it revealed the ROG Xbox Ally, a new portable console made in partnership with ASUS.
This sleek handheld brings the full Xbox experience into a compact device you can carry anywhere. It arrives just as Nintendo’s Switch 2 hits the market, making the portable gaming space more exciting than ever.
An Xbox You Can Hold
Described by Xbox president Sarah Bond as “an Xbox you can hold in your hands,” the ROG Xbox Ally runs Windows and supports a wide range of platforms.
You’ll be able to play games from Xbox, Steam, Battle.net, GOG, and Ubisoft Connect—all on one device. That means no matter where you buy your games, they’ll work here.
Two Models Coming Soon
Microsoft confirmed two models: Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. Both will launch by the 2025 holiday season. However, pricing and exact dates will be announced later this year.
The design looks like an elongated Xbox controller, with familiar buttons, triggers, and grips. At the center sits a bright, high-resolution screen—ideal for long play sessions at home or on the go.
New UI Built for Handheld Play
When powered on, the Xbox Ally launches directly into a full-screen Xbox interface, redesigned for handheld use.
This new experience offers smoother access to your games, whether they’re from the Microsoft Store or third-party platforms like Steam.
Built for Travel and Comfort
The ROG Xbox Ally isn’t just for travel—it’s also made for comfort. Whether you’re playing in a coffee shop, at the airport, or from the couch, it promises a seamless gaming experience.
Microsoft says it’s perfect for those who want “a friendly and flexible way to game between flights—or between the comfiest chairs at home.”
A Clear Response to Nintendo’s Switch 2
The timing couldn’t be more interesting. Microsoft’s big reveal comes just days after Nintendo launched the Switch 2, an upgraded version of its wildly popular console.
The Switch 2 features a larger screen and stronger performance. But unlike Nintendo’s locked system, the Xbox Ally runs open Windows, giving players far more choice and freedom.
This isn’t just another handheld. It’s a device meant to blend console power with PC flexibility.
Why ROG Xbox Ally Matters
With this move, Microsoft is taking a bold step beyond traditional gaming. It’s aiming for a world where your entire game library follows you, wherever you go.
By bringing Xbox and PC platforms together, Microsoft is pushing handheld gaming into new territory. Gamers no longer have to choose between portability and power.
The ROG Xbox Ally is more than a device—it’s a signal that the future of gaming is cross-platform, open, and always accessible.
