ASUS Unveils Plans for an Xbox Handheld Console Set to Launch in 2025

Substitute: It will very likely be released quite soon

Substitute #2[Thu Thirteenth Mar 2025, 9:45am]: Conversely, it has recently been indicated that the initially suggested “release” timeframe of this summer was incorrect, and it appears that this is when it is speculated to be revealed instead.

“(Update: The date mentioned here was mistakenly cited as the launch date in an earlier version and has been corrected. We apologize for the mistake.)“

Substitute #1[Thu Thirteenth Mar 2025, 12:01am]: Windows Central’s Jez Corden has added even more insights regarding his leak, suggesting that he estimates the handheld may end up priced between $499 and $599, and that it could potentially launch as early as this summer. However, he cautions readers to take this information with a “grain of salt” as various factors could influence timing and pricing.

He also notes that he has heard of two distinct models (or “SKUs”) that are likely to be available, although the differences between them remain uncertain at this stage.

This particular Xbox handheld is not expected to run console versions of Xbox games, but will instead utilize the Xbox PC app along with services like Xbox Cloud Gaming to access its titles. It is expected that the device will support Steam, the Epic Games Store, Battle.net, and other various platforms, similar to the ROG Ally.

“Release windows should be treated cautiously here due to tariffs, global macroeconomic conditions, and so forth. Nevertheless, we’ve heard that the Kennan device could be released as soon as this summer. The original ROG Ally debuted in June 2023, and it’s been suggested to us that ASUS and Microsoft aim for a comparable launch timeframe.”

General Narrative: Earlier this week, it was reported that Xbox was collaborating with an unidentified manufacturer on a branded Xbox handheld set to launch in 2025, which will be succeeded by a major handheld device potentially in 2027. Thanks to The Verge, we now have additional information about what to expect from this year’s model – if it does launch this year.

The publication states in its report that the 2025 Xbox handheld is being developed in conjunction with ASUS (recognized for the ROG Ally series of handheld devices) and is expected to be powered by Windows – but with an interface that more closely resembles that of an Xbox.

“The device itself will be powered by Windows beneath, but with an interface that more closely resembles what you would find on an Xbox.”

Interestingly, this 2025 Xbox handheld is part of Microsoft’s ambition to achieve and “harmonize Windows and Xbox towards a universal library of Xbox and PC games.” As mentioned earlier this year, Xbox’s Jason Ronald has spoken about the desire to bring a console experience to PC handhelds, so this new device appears to align well with that vision.

“Sources familiar with Microsoft’s objectives indicate that the company’s plans for Xbox this year and beyond are focused on one primary goal: the unification of Windows and Xbox.”

The report explains that Microsoft will be aiming to